Features Of An Ideal And Effective Product Backlog In Scrum Methodology

What is a product backlog in scrum?

In scrum methodology, a product backlog consists of an ordered list, which includes everything needed to develop a complete product, right from its inception. The list items in the backlog typically include the features, functionalities, user requirements, etc. associated with the product to be developed.   In certain cases, the backlog may include additional features or functionalities, which may be needed to complete an unfinished product or to develop and advanced version of an existing product. At its very core, a product backlog generally includes a list of product related requirements, of all kinds, and is managed by an individual who has a proper understanding of what needs to be developed and in what manner, as well as the ability to comprehend all client’s requirements.     

What are the ideal characteristics of a product backlog?

An ideal product backlog should have certain characteristics which can help it to become effective and easily implementable.

·       Clearly visible to every person

Agile and scrum principles stress a lot upon transparency and collaboration. The backlog should be easily accessible, and made available to each scrum member associated with the project. Each member should be able to apprise himself or herself about what is going on, and what is being planned. The basic objective of making the product backlog visible to everyone is to avoid undue surprises and to prevent disruptive behavior amongst team members.   

·       Should be unique, ordered, and centralized

To avoid confusion or misunderstandings regarding the project development, it is very important for the product backlog to be unique and located in a central place which is accessible to everyone. Maintaining several versions and updates of the product backlog can often lead to confusion amongst the team members and the product owner as to which version should be followed or implemented. Having a single version helps to remove this confusion from occurring. The list should also be ordered as per the priorities set up by the product owner. It is important to develop those user stories first which are more important and carry more value. The backlog should be centrally located so that each member can easily access it independently, without having to depend upon a particular person who can make it accessible to others. It is important to do this to avoid information hiding and power games from being initiated. Scrum lays stress upon information sharing and preventing any single person from assuming total authority.

·       Dynamic and real-time update support

A product backlog is a “live” element within scrum methodology, and should possess the ability to reflect the most recent changes and updates occurring in the development of user stories during the sprint process. The main objective of scrum is to increase the involvement of client and team members, so that the development can be carried out in a dynamic manner, with everyone involved knowing about the most recent project status i.e. what development has taken place till date, how much of the product backlog is still pending, and which team member is involved with a particular development task. Ideally, the product backlog should display the most recent status, and have the capability to quickly incorporate the changes taking place in live environment.   

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