Concepts
Successful group decision making can often be a significant challenge, particularly in the context of Agile project management as overseen by a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM). However, there are numerous techniques that can be employed to facilitate efficient and effective consensus-building. Here, we will explore three such methods: the Nominal Group Technique (NGT), Delphi Technique, and the Dot Voting Method. These techniques have proven to be tremendously helpful in the context of Scrum, a methodology central to the CSM exam.
Nominal Group Technique (NGT)
Utilizing NGT, each member of the team independently writes down their ideas about the decision in question. Once all ideas have been collected, team members present their thoughts one-by-one to the group for further discussion. This process maximizes individual input, prompts constructive discussion and minimizes the negative effects of groupthink. For example, when deciding the priority of user stories in a Product Backlog, NGT can be a very effective way to hear all voices and weigh the importance of different tasks.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Minimizes groupthink | Can be time-consuming |
| Ensures everyone’s ideas are heard | May discourage spontaneous discussion |
Delphi Technique
In this method, a facilitator uses a series of surveys to gather information on the opinions of the team members. The results are summarised and shared with the group, then a second round of surveys is conducted to refine the decision based on the presented feedback. These rounds continue until a consensus can be reached. The Delphi Technique minimizes the risk of one voice dominating the decision-making process. For instance, in determining the Sprint Goal, where team members might defer to a strong personality, this technique is invaluable.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Minimizes domination by a single voice | Can be time-consuming |
| Allows for anonymous feedback | Can lead to repetitive discussion |
Dot Voting Method
This technique, also known as dotmocracy, allows every group member to cast a vote on each of the options under consideration. Each participant is given a set number of dot stickers which they can distribute among the options, either all on one or spread across several. The option with the most stickers is the group’s decision. This is a quick, democratic method often used to prioritize Backlog Items or during Retrospectives to select improvement measures.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Quick and democratic method | Can be prone to “popularity contests” |
| Allows for individual preferences | May oversimplify complex decisions |
In summary, group decision-making techniques are a fundamental tool for a Certified ScrumMaster and can significantly improve the efficiency and efficacy of consensus-building within a Scrum Team. Each method carries its advantages and disadvantages, and the CSM may choose the one most appropriate for the situation at hand. Regardless of the method used, it’s vital that all voices are heard, and decisions are made collectively to foster collaboration and teamwork, which are at the core of Agile and Scrum philosophies.
Answer the Questions in Comment Section
True or False: Brainstorming is one technique for facilitating group decision-making.
- True
- False
Correct Answer: True
Which of the following are recognized techniques for facilitating group decision making? (Multiple select)
- Nominal Group Technique
- The Delphi Method
- Multivoting
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
True or False: The majority vote technique is the only accepted method for group decision making in Scrum.
- True
- False
Correct Answer: False
True or False: Decisions made in a Scrum Team should always be unanimous.
- True
- False
Correct Answer: False
What is one main risk associated with the group decision-making technique known as “Majority Voting”?
- Lack of creativity
- Inadequate participation
- Split group opinion
- None of the above
Correct Answer: Split group opinion
True or False: Consensus Building requires every team member to agree completely with the decision.
- True
- False
Correct Answer: False
The Delphi Method is a group decision-making method that involves:
- Anonymous voting
- Round-robin speaking
- Nomination of a team leader
- Group discussion
Correct Answer: Anonymous voting
True or False: As a ScrumMaster, it’s essential to have effective techniques to facilitate group decision making.
- True
- False
Correct Answer: True
Which of the following are the benefits of using brainstorming technique in group decision making?
- Generates a wide range of ideas
- Encourages everyone’s participation
- Promotes creative thinking
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
True or False: Multivoting is a technique where each member gets multiple votes that they can allocate to options as they see fit.
- True
- False
Correct Answer: True
A Scrum Master facilitating a decision-making session should ensure:
- Everyone agrees with the decision
- All team members’ voices are heard
- Only management’s opinion is taken into consideration
- A well-liked option is chosen
Correct Answer: All team members’ voices are heard
In a Scrum Team, consensus building is typically achieved by:
- Incorporating opinions of every team member
- Ignoring minority views for quick decision making
- Giving all decision making powers to the Scrum Master
- Having Scrum Team members vote until reaching a 51% majority
Correct Answer: Incorporating opinions of every team member
Facilitating group decision-making is crucial for a ScrumMaster. One effective technique is using the ‘Fist to Five’ method. Has anyone used this in their teams?
Another great technique is ‘Dot Voting’. We’ve used it for prioritizing user stories. Any tips on making it more effective?
I find ‘Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down’ to be a simple and effective technique. It’s not just for casual decisions but can be adapted to more serious ones too.
Thanks for sharing these techniques. They are really helpful!
Great post! It’s always good to reinforce best practices in facilitating decisions.
I think combining ‘Dot Voting’ with ‘Fist to Five’ could be a powerful approach. Anyone tried that?
One more technique to add is ‘Affinity Mapping’. Helps in organizing ideas and making decisions more structured.
Awesome insights, everyone. This discussion is quite beneficial for aspiring ScrumMasters.