Scrum is an increasingly popular technique of undertaking innovative projects on agile methodology (Belatrix Software, 2015). The framework allows the user to model it to the required specifications of the project. This provides several benefits when undertaking interactive projects with endless possibilities. First, it offers several financial benefits in developing projects. It lowers product cost through elimination of several costs, thereby improving return on investment (Rubin, 2013). This is so because the lowered execution and support costs improve margins while improving payback period.
Secondly, it improves customer relations on several fronts. The framework allows for fast coding, testing and error rectification, enabling quick delivery to the customer. Additionally, the iterative and incremental nature of the methodology allows for the incorporation of continuous customer feedback in each sprint, shaping the products according to real-world use. This leads to better quality that improves customer perception, which leads to several benefits such as customer satisfaction, repeat business, referrals, and client advocacy (Scrum Alliance, 2016). Lastly, the framework is easy to work with and delivers quality products that users get to enjoy, leading to a happier and productive project development experience.
Despite having several strong advantages, the Scrum framework has a number of glaring drawbacks as well. The top disadvantage is that of scope creep. Scrum is one of the leading causes of scope creep, which occurs due to poor structuring of Project Scope Statement and Project Management Requirements. Other causes are poor project control and too many stakeholders that often lead to indecision. In short, scope creep is usually precipitated by the lack of clear definition of plans, structures, and definite end time. A spillover effect of scope creep is inaccuracy in estimating project costs and delivery. Since the precise nature of the end product will be unknown, its development will feature several changes that lead to several sprints. Lastly, the adaptation of the Scrum framework for projects that require large teams is not feasible since it strictly demands experienced developers with maturity and dedication.
- Belatrix Software. (2015). Software development services. Belatrix Software. Retrieved from http://www.belatrixsf.com/services/product-development/software-development/
- Rubin, K. (2013). 3 big benefits of Scrum and why it beats Waterfall. OpenView Labs. Retrieved from http://labs.openviewpartners.com/3-benefits-of-scrum-beats-waterfall/#.WbXU9IzTS00
- Scrum Alliance. (2016). The financial benefits of Scrum. Scrumalliance.org. Retrieved from https://www.scrumalliance.org/agile-resources/the-financial-benefits-of-scrum
