Concepts
Regardless of the role, whether it be Scrum Master, Product Owner, or a member of the Development Team, managing dependencies is a critical aspect of successful Agile project delivery. Here, we will focus on two key techniques for visualizing, managing, or reducing dependencies that are useful resources for any working towards the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) exam.
1. Dependency Mapping
Dependency Mapping, also known as Dependency Structure Matrix (DSM) or Design Structure Matrix, is a simple, yet effective tool for representing and analyzing the dependencies within a project. Essentially, the technique involves creating a square matrix, where the tasks, teams, or components, are listed both below and beside the matrix. The presence of a mark in a cell indicates a dependency between the respective tasks. This method provides a visualization of dependencies that can highlight areas requiring careful management or potential reduction.
Let’s take an example. Suppose you have four tasks; A, B, C, and D. B depends on A, C depends on both A and B, and D relies on B. Visualizing this on a matrix can help see where you should focus your efforts.
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | X | X | ||
| B | X | X | ||
| C | ||||
| D |
2. Dependency Wheel
The second technique is the Dependency Wheel. This helps visualize complex interdependencies in a more intuitive and elegant manner. Each task is represented by a node on the outer rim of the wheel, with dependency presented as an arrow (or curved line) going from one task to another. The visibility of the dependencies helps the team manage them by enabling the planning of tasks or iteration in the presence of these dependencies.
For example, in a dependency wheel, tasks A, B, C, and D would be nodes, with an arrow pointing from A to B and C, from B to C and D, and no arrows from C and D, reflecting the described dependencies.
Reducing dependencies is as critical as identifying and managing them. Techniques such as removing unnecessary tasks, consolidating tasks where possible, or reordering tasks to eliminate dependencies can be effective in achieving this goal.
These visualization and management techniques are not only useful in the daily work of a Scrum Team but are also part of knowledge required for the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) exam. They can assist in the identification, visualization, management, and ultimately reduction of dependencies, leading to smoother project execution and a higher chance of success. The aforementioned examples of a Dependency Matrix and Dependency Wheel are just two of many possible methods, and it’s recommended to explore and research further as deemed fit.
Remember, the end goal isn’t just to visualize dependencies – it’s to use this knowledge to minimize them, and thereby, ensure the team can collaborate and deliver value more effectively.
Answer the Questions in Comment Section
True / False : Dependency wheel and Dependency Structure Matrix are both techniques used for visualizing dependencies.
- 1) True
- 2) False
Correct Answer: True
Which of the following techniques can be used to manage dependencies? (Multiple Select)
- 1) Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT)
- 2) Gantt Charts
- 3) SWOT Analysis
- 4) Risk Matrix
Correct Answers: Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT), Gantt Charts
True / False : A dependency map can be useful in reducing dependencies by identifying unnecessary ties between tasks.
- 1) True
- 2) False
Correct Answer: True
What can the Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) be used for? (Single Select)
- 1) Identifying and managing dependencies
- 2) Creating a project schedule
- 3) Identifying project risks
- 4) All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
True / False : Cross-functional teams can help to reduce dependencies by enabling more tasks to be completed independently.
- 1) True
- 2) False
Correct Answer: True
Which of the following tools can be used to visualize dependencies? (Multi-Select)
- 1) Network diagrams
- 2) Burndown charts
- 3) Gantt charts
- 4) Pareto charts
Correct Answers: Network diagrams, Gantt charts
True / False : Task Prioritization Matrix does not help in reducing dependencies.
- 1) True
- 2) False
Correct Answer: False
Which of the following techniques can be used to reduce dependencies? (Multiple Select)
- 1) Ensuring tasks are as independent as possible
- 2) Building cross-functional teams
- 3) Using a dependency structure matrix
- 4) Assigning more resources to the dependent tasks
Correct Answers: Ensuring tasks are as independent as possible, Building cross-functional teams, Using a dependency structure matrix
True / False : Dependencies can be managed by creating and maintaining a project schedule.
- 1) True
- 2) False
Correct Answer: True
Which of the following are benefits of visualizing dependencies? (Multiple Select)
- 1) It helps to identify unnecessary links between tasks
- 2) It allows better planning and scheduling
- 3) It eliminates the need for communication within the team
- 4) It enables resources to be allocated more efficiently
Correct Answers: It helps to identify unnecessary links between tasks, It allows better planning and scheduling, It enables resources to be allocated more efficiently
True / False : A-CRSM exam does not cover visualizing, managing or reducing dependencies.
- 1) True
- 2) False
Correct Answer: False
In which scenario can a Gantt Chart be useful? (Single Select)
- 1) When tasks can be done in no particular order
- 2) When there are few dependencies between tasks
- 3) When project scheduling and tracking is not necessary
- 4) When tasks have clear dependencies and need to be scheduled over time
Correct Answer: When tasks have clear dependencies and need to be scheduled over time
Great blog post! I found the tips on visualizing dependencies very helpful.
One technique I’ve used successfully is dependency mapping through a visual tool like Miro or Lucidchart. Any thoughts?
Appreciate the detailed information on using dependency matrices to manage dependencies in Scrum.
Thanks for this post. It’s useful for preparation for the A-CSM exam.
For reducing dependencies, breaking down tasks into smaller user stories can be very effective. Anyone else trying this?
Utilizing a Kanban board to visualize dependencies has been a game-changer for our Scrum team.
Good pointers, but the post could use more actionable steps.
Risk-adjusted backlog is another technique that can help manage dependencies. Others finding this useful?