When a team struggles to complete their Sprint Backlog, what should they do first?

When a team is struggling to complete their Sprint Backlog, the first step should be to consult with the Product Owner for help. Engaging with the Product Owner can provide valuable insights into priorities, clarify requirements, and help the team understand the importance of completing specific items in the backlog. The Product Owner can assist in determining whether the scope of work is realistic and may suggest adjustments to help the team focus on delivering the highest value during the Sprint.

This consultation is crucial because the Product Owner has the understanding of the overall project goals and can help align the team’s efforts with stakeholder expectations. Additionally, by discussing these challenges openly, the team can foster a collaborative environment where adjustments can be made, and strategies can be developed to improve future sprints.

In contrast, ignoring the issue would lead to continued struggles and potential failure to deliver, asking the Scrum Master for a solution may not empower the team to address the root causes of their difficulties, and extending the Sprint duration is generally not an advisable or effective solution, as it undermines the time-boxed nature of Scrum and does not resolve underlying issues.