Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Scrum Master Practice Test

What is a common anti-pattern for teams trying to prepare their draft objectives at PI Planning?

1. Too much time is spent analyzing each Story

2. A focus on long-term goals rather than immediate tasks

3. Overloading the team with too many objectives

4. Lack of communication between team members

The correct answer is: Too much time is spent analyzing each Story

Spending too much time analyzing each Story is indeed a common anti-pattern that can hinder a team's ability to effectively prepare their draft objectives during PI Planning. This behavior often stems from an overemphasis on perfecting each detail before moving forward, which can lead to paralysis by analysis. In the context of PI Planning, teams are encouraged to maintain a balance between thorough discussion of Stories and making timely decisions to formulate and prioritize their objectives. The goal of PI Planning is to establish a coherent set of objectives that align with the program's vision within a limited time frame. When teams get bogged down in analyzing each Story excessively, they risk falling behind schedule, which can negatively impact the overall planning process. The efficiency of the PI Planning event relies on teams being able to identify key Stories, discuss them sufficiently to capture their essence, and prioritize them towards achieving strategic goals rather than getting lost in the minutiae. Teams should aim to have productive discussions that allow them to move swiftly through the objectives, ensuring that they remain focused on both immediate deliverables and the broader goals of the Program Increment. This approach fosters a more dynamic, responsive planning process that can adapt to changing circumstances and encourages collaboration among team members.