The creation of an Increment is the purpose of Scrum. An Increment that represents a step forward the product goal and product vision. However, there are often misconceptions about what an Increment truly signifies and how it should be interpreted within the Scrum. These misunderstandings can lead to misaligned expectations. This article aims to clarify these misconceptions by exploring what an Increment is not and what it actually is, providing a clearer understanding to help teams effectively utilize this essential element of Scrum.
The Increment is Not partial work. The Increment is a valuable and usable piece of the product.
The Increment is Not an isolated task. The Increment is an integration of all completed items.
The Increment is Not untested. The Increment is fully tested and potentially releasable.
The Increment is Not separate from the definition of done. The Increment meets the definition of done.
The Increment is Not standalone. The Increment builds on previous increments.
The Increment is Not about quantity. The Increment is about quality and value.
The Increment is Not a one-time effort. The Increment is part of a continuous delivery process.
The Increment is Not hidden. The Increment is inspected during the Sprint Review.
The Increment is Not fixed. The Increment can adapt based on feedback and changes.
The Increment is Not optional. The Increment is an essential element of the Scrum framework.
In conclusion, the Increment is a fundamental element of the Scrum framework that embodies the team's commitment to delivering high-quality, valuable work in sprint. By recognizing and embracing what an Increment truly represents, Scrum teams can enhance their efficiency, transparency, and success in their product development.
Embrace the power of the Increment and witness its transformative impact on your Agile journey.