Integrating Scrum into Programs and Portfolios

Scrum is so well documented for a typical small project, that it is relatively easy to introduce it into a small-medium IT business unit. Up to now, larger companies have found it a bit of a challenge, especially companies with an established Project Management Office (PMO), program managers and one or more portfolio managers. The same goes for larger IT projects that need 3 or more scrum teams.

Working to Scale in Scrum

When adopting Scrum as an Agile framework, it is recommended that a Scrum project has a team of 5 to 9 resources. This gives the impression that it is only suitable for small projects. This is not the case, as it can be used for larger projects; the trick is to have multiple Scrums Teams working on sub-projects.

These multiple scrum teams are kept in synchronisation by periodic joint meetings, using a meeting known as the “Scrum of Scrums”. A new hierarchy is required to be introduced for this requiring a Chief Scrum Master and Chief Product Owner, who facilitate and co-ordinate the overall project.

Recommended Further Reading

The following materials may assist you in order to get the most out of this course: