The 5 Scrum Values Easily Explained

“Scrum is more about behavior than it is about the process.” That is what “Scrum Caretaker” Gunther Verheyen has said. The meaning behind this is easy to explain: The success of a project depends on the interactions and collaboration of the team. Therefore we do not only have rules and principles. 5 core Scrum values define a code of ethics for every Scrum team.

Why Scrum Values?

Whereas Scrum principles are used as guidelines, Scrum values can be seen as commandments. They are the base of a well-working and successful team and give direction for every work interaction. By committing to the Scrum values, it is possible for teams f.e. to communicate more effectively. This will lead to better teamwork which is the key to successful projects.

What are the 5 Scrum Values?

1. Courage

“Scrum team members have courage to do the right thing and work on tough problems.”

• Courage is needed to handle challenging tasks. It means to accept changes or to take risks when needed. In this way it is possible to learn and shape a creative, innovative, and productive team. It is very welcome to think of different approaches and present them to the team. Courage also means speaking honestly and to ask questions when facing problems. By staying committed to this value, you are willing to push yourself beyond your comfort zone and drive the team’s overall performance.

2. Focus

“Everyone focuses on the work of the Sprint and the goals of the Scrum team.”

• Focus is about staying on track and not losing your goal. To complete tasks it is indispensable for agile teams to talk openly to each other. In this way, it is possible to eliminate distractions or solve individual workloads. The scrum master has here a core role in eliminating obstacles and problems. So the team can work unhindered and stick to their individual roles and responsibilities. The product backlog also helps the team to focus on the most important things by prioritizing tasks and creating a roadmap for the next sprints.

3. Commitment

“People personally commit to achieving the goals of the Scrum team.”

• Commitment is about staying dedicated to the objectives and goals in the sprint. The Scrum team is willing to complete their tasks and drive the success of the project. But this value is not only about deadlines and milestones. It is more of a commitment to everyone in the team to constantly learn and grow. Scrum masters can help to focus on commitment through good communication and proper sprint planning.

4. Respect

“Scrum team members respect each other to be capable, independent people.”

• Respect means to treat people equally – regardless of age, gender, culture, or social position. Sprint events help to promote respect for each role in the team and their knowledge and skills. Acting respectfully also relates to customers and stakeholders. Sometimes you have to respect their decisions and opinions even if you disagree with them. By acting respectfully, you can ensure a productive and human working environment. It will strengthen the bond in the team and increase the team’s effectiveness.

5. Openness

“The scrum team and its stakeholders agree to be open about all the work and the challenges with performing the work.”

• Openness is about being open-minded and creating a culture of transparency. This transparency creates trust between all parties. It also means being open to change and to collaborate between members of different disciplines. Everyone in the team should be open to sharing feedback and learning from their teammates. The Scrum events can help to provide a space for reflection and sharing progress. Also stakeholders are committed to this value by providing honest feedback during the meetings.

Final Thoughts

Scrum is a framework of principles and values. These values shape the team behavior and help to form a healthy, creative, and productive team environment.