Scrum Master Capstone

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/scrum-master-capstone

Introduction

**Course Review: Scrum Master Capstone on Coursera** In today's fast-paced tech environment, effective project management methodologies such as Agile and Scrum have gained incredible significance. For professionals seeking to hone their skills as Scrum Masters, the Scrum Master Capstone course on Coursera offers an integrated, hands-on approach to implementing Scrum principles. This course is the perfect culmination for those who have participated in the IBM IT Scrum Master Professional Certificate or the SkillUp Scrum Master Specialization. ### Course Overview The Scrum Master Capstone provides learners the opportunity to practically apply the knowledge and skills acquired in prior courses, navigating the complexities of leading a Scrum team through real-life project scenarios. This course is systematically designed to impart practical knowledge in project initiation, team formation, and individual skill development in key areas such as User Stories and working agreements. ### Course Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Program and Course Introduction:** The course begins by immersing students in the fundamentals of Agile project chartering and product road mapping. Participants engage in a Stacey Analysis through hands-on labs, which sets the foundation for effective stakeholder identification and team dynamics. The guided process of developing working agreements fosters collaboration and encourages the formulation of team norms. 2. **Product Backlog and User Story Development:** The second module delves into creating and managing a product backlog while developing actionable user stories. Learners also explore Agile risk registers, utilizing tools like the Force Field Analysis to assess project risks effectively. This module emphasizes relative estimation, story points, and velocity calculations vital for planning sprints. 3. **Sprint 1 Planning and Execution:** Module three drives home the importance of thorough Sprint planning. By creating a Sprint backlog, students learn to manage their team's progress visually through Kanban boards and burndown charts. The Sprint Review and demo offers a chance to evaluate progress and iterate on the Scrum process by refining daily meetings and making actionable improvements. 4. **Sprint Close Out and Analysis:** In this module, participants conduct a Sprint retrospective, discussing what went well and what needs improvement. By focusing on actionable recommendations, they prepare for future Sprints through user story development and backlog updates. This reflective aspect of the course strengthens the learners' capabilities to adapt and thrive in collaborative environments. 5. **Sprint 3 - MVP Launch:** The capstone culminates in launching the minimal viable product (MVP). Learners analyze prior Sprints to prepare for the launch, utilizing feedback and performance metrics to devise an execution plan. The importance of refining user stories for future releases is emphasized, ensuring learners leave with practical insights into product lifecycle management. 6. **Final Submission and Evaluation:** The final module reinforces course learnings by guiding participants through project submission requirements, and discussing Scrum Master certification opportunities. A bonus lesson rounds out the course, providing invaluable tips on portfolio development and resume crafting tailored for the Scrum Master role. ### Recommendations The Scrum Master Capstone on Coursera is highly recommended for professionals looking to solidify their understanding of Scrum practices and enhance their project leadership skills. With its structured, hands-on approach, the course effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for real-world challenges. - **Who Should Enroll:** This course is ideal for individuals who have completed foundational courses in Agile and Scrum methodologies and are looking to advance their competencies in a collaborative project environment. - **Why Take This Course:** The practical exercises, combined with reflective assessments, help learners internalize the Scrum framework, fostering an agile mindset. Ultimately, the course not only prepares students for roles as Scrum Masters but also equips them with tools to enhance their team’s productivity and project success rates. In conclusion, the Scrum Master Capstone serves as a critical stepping stone for budding Scrum Masters eager to make a substantial impact in their organizations. Whether you’re looking to polish your existing skills or launch a new career in Agile project management, this course is a robust choice that promises to enrich your professional journey.

Syllabus

Program and Course Introduction

In module one, you initiate the project you will be working on during this course. This involves reviewing an Agile project charter and exploring the product roadmap for a commuter support business application. You will learn how to perform a Stacey Analysis using dedicated tools through a hands-on lab. In lesson two, you learn about stakeholder identification and engagement methods and meet your team members. Also, you develop a working agreement in a guided process and create one with your team in the second hands-on lab of this module.

Module two consists of two lessons. In lesson 1, you learn about and create user stories and a product backlog for your project. In lesson two, you learn about and create an Agile risk register with the Force Field Analysis tool. You will also review and perform relative estimation for your user stories to determine story points and calculate velocity for the next Sprint.

Module three focuses on Sprint planning and execution. In lesson one, you plan for the first Sprint by creating a Sprint backlog for your first Sprint of the project. From this backlog, you develop a Kanban board and a burndown chart to document and follow the team’s progress during the Sprint. In lesson 2, your team conducts a Sprint Review and demo. You evaluate Sprint One, make recommendations for improving daily Scrum meetings, and determine the actions required following the review.

Module four consists of closing out the Sprint and conducting some analysis. In lesson one, you hold the Sprint retrospective meeting where you recommend changes in how to conduct the upcoming Sprints based on how you and your team believe the Sprint went. Then in lesson two, you close out the Sprint and prepare a game plan for the next Sprint by developing another user story, updating the product backlog, and creating another Kanban board.

In module five, you launch the minimal viable product (MVP). In lesson one, you analyze Sprints 1 and 2 in preparation for the launch, including the launch burndown chart and customer feedback. Based on the review, you developed a Sprint 3 execution plan and defined course corrections for launch goals. In lesson 2, you summarize the end-to-end product launch and final demo feedback for Sprint 3. You review and refine the product backlog and develop User Stories for a Release Sprint, which supports version 2 of the product.

Module six contains two lessons and a bonus lesson. In lesson one, you read the project submission requirements and submit your final project. Lesson two wraps up the course and provides a reading on Scrum Master certification opportunities. In the bonus content lesson, you learn about personal portfolio development and tips on creating a great Scrum Master resume. A personal portfolio is a great way to share who you are, showcase the work you have accomplished, and demonstrate that you have the skills to excel in a potential new role.