Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Advanced Scrum Master Practice Exam

What should the Scrum Master consider doing if one state on the team Kanban board has people waiting while the previous stage is overloaded?

1. Ignore the situation since it's part of normal operations

2. Direct all resources to the overloaded stage immediately

3. Encourage and coach people in the under-utilized stage to assist with the overloaded stage

4. Restructure the team to balance workload across the board

The correct answer is: Encourage and coach people in the under-utilized stage to assist with the overloaded stage

Encouraging and coaching people in the under-utilized stage to assist with the overloaded stage is an effective strategy because it promotes collaboration and cross-functionality within the team. This approach utilizes the principle of continuous improvement and flow optimization, which are key aspects of the Scaled Agile Framework. By addressing the imbalance directly, the Scrum Master fosters a culture of teamwork and helps to ensure that work-in-progress is managed effectively, preventing bottlenecks and enabling smoother handoffs. This practice not only helps resolve the current issue but also builds a sense of shared responsibility among team members. It empowers individuals to step outside their designated roles, allowing for a more flexible response to unexpected challenges. This kind of adaptive behavior is crucial in agile methodologies, where the aim is to respond to change and optimize processes iteratively. Moreover, by coaching team members to support one another, the Scrum Master encourages their professional growth and competency in a wider range of tasks, ultimately enhancing the team's overall capability and resilience. This approach aligns with the principles of servant leadership prevalent in agile frameworks, reinforcing the Scrum Master's role in facilitating team dynamics and collaboration.