Can the Product Owner delegate the ordering of Product Backlog items to the development team?

The Product Owner can delegate the ordering of Product Backlog items to the development team, but it is important to note that the Product Owner retains accountability for the overall product backlog and its prioritization. This means that while the development team can provide input, suggestions, or even take a role in the ordering process based on their technical expertise or understanding of customer needs, the ultimate responsibility lies with the Product Owner.

This approach allows for collaboration, where the development team can help assess dependencies, provide insights on technical feasibility, and suggest the most valuable items to work on next. However, the Product Owner must ensure that the final ordering reflects the overall vision and goals of the product, aligning with stakeholder interests and market strategy. Thus, the delegation does not absolve the Product Owner of their critical role in guiding the product's direction and delivering value to customers.