What Scrum Won’t Fix

As great a framework as Scrum is, there are certain kinds of problems Scrum will not solve. For example, unrealistic expectations are a common issue that often manifest as a desire for overnight success and instant, exponential productivity improvements. While these benefits will eventually come, progress is hindered by people who demand dramatic results NOW.

Another ill Scrum can’t cure is an unsupportive leadership team. Sometimes executives take a “wait and see” approach, only participating in the implementation if success seems well on its way. However, a successful Scrum adoption requires leaders who lead from the front, and become the primary cheerleaders for the transformation. Similarly, a lack of strategy or vision cannot be fixed by Scrum (though it can help teams rapidly iterate through ideas to find the right concept).

The Mindset for a Scrum Transition

Scrum, at its core, is a framework that elicits change, and sometimes that change can be painful. Unfortunately, many companies recognize their problems, but don’t want to experience the uncomfortable shifts needed to make things better. If an organization is in that situation, they shouldn’t be looking at Scrum as an option because the transition is bound to be unsuccessful.

Lastly, and probably most important, is the concept of honesty. A company has to relentlessly self-reflect and be honest with itself, warts and all, for the most effective Scrum transition.