What is the Recommended Size for a Scrum Team?
In the realm of Agile approaches and frameworks, Scrum stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. However, one question often arises: “What is the optimal size for a Scrum team?” The Scrum Guide suggests that teams should be small enough to remain nimble and large enough to complete significant work within a Sprint. While the guide recommends fewer than 10 members, it doesn’t specify an exact number, leaving many to wonder about the ideal team size.
This article will discuss the idea of an optimal Scrum team size, and show that it is somewhere a little below 10 people.
Exploring the Optimal Scrum Team Size
To uncover the optimal team size, we turn to empirical evidence. The Scrum Team Survey serves as a valuable tool, collecting data from teams worldwide to analyze their structure and performance. This methodology provides insights beyond anecdotal evidence, offering a data-driven approach to understanding team dynamics.
Findings on Scrum Team Size
The survey reveals a trend: most Scrum teams consist of 5 to 10 members. While smaller teams tend to perform better, the margin is slight. The law of diminishing returns applies here; as teams grow, the added value of each new member decreases. This phenomenon is supported by scientific studies on team size and performance, which suggest that beyond a certain point, larger teams may hinder efficiency and agility.
The Importance of Psychological Safety in Scrum Teams
Psychological safety, a term coined by Amy Edmondson, refers to a team’s ability to take risks without feeling insecure or embarrassed. It’s a crucial factor in team performance, and studies show it’s higher in smaller teams. This sense of safety significantly predicts a team’s effectiveness, making it a vital consideration when determining team size.
Practical Implications and Tips
Given the evidence, it’s prudent to cap new Scrum teams at 10 members. However, there’s room for flexibility. Some teams may thrive with fewer members, especially if maintaining psychological safety is a priority. For larger teams, it’s essential to foster an environment where all members can contribute meaningfully. Here are some tips for managing team size:
- Encourage Cross-Functionality: Use tools like a skill matrix to help team members develop a broad range of skills, allowing for more flexibility in task allocation and collaboration.
- Maintain Clear Communication: As teams grow, communication can become more challenging. Implementing clear communication channels and practices is essential.
- Foster Psychological Safety: Create an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns without fear of negative consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Scrum Guide recommend a maximum of 10 members?
The Scrum Guide suggests fewer than 10 members to maintain the team’s agility and facilitate easy coordination. Smaller teams can communicate more effectively and manage workloads without the complexity that larger groups bring.
How does team size affect the psychological safety and effectiveness of a Scrum team?
Larger teams may struggle with psychological safety as members might feel less connected and less willing to take risks. This can affect the team’s overall effectiveness, as psychological safety is closely linked to performance.
Are there benefits to having a smaller Scrum team?
Yes, smaller teams often benefit from increased focus, better communication, and a stronger sense of ownership. These factors contribute to a more cohesive team environment and can lead to higher productivity.
Conclusion
The evidence-based recommendation for Scrum team size suggests that smaller is often better, with a maximum of 10 members being a practical guideline. However, the key to a successful Scrum team lies not just in its size but in the psychological safety and cohesion among its members. As you form your Scrum teams, consider these factors carefully to ensure a balanced, effective team dynamic. For those seeking to delve deeper into the nuances of Scrum teams, the in-depth series on Scrum teams offers a wealth of information.
