In a recent meeting, I found myself struggling to recall all the Scrum values. It was a moment of blankness, which was particularly frustrating as I pride myself on my expertise. Noooooo!
Remembering lists has never been my strong suit.
Previously, I had managed to remember the pillars of Empiricism—Transparency, Inspection, and Adaptation—as TIA, using the Spanish word for aunt (as in ‘Tia Maria’).
Realizing I needed a similar mnemonic for the Scrum values, I discovered a handy acronym: FORCE (or FORCC, if you want to be precise).
In the world of Scrum, staying true to its core values is essential for teams to thrive. So… “Use the FORCE”!
Focus
Scrum teams focus on the work of the Sprint and the goals of the Scrum team. The distinct accountabilities within Scrum allow team members to concentrate on their expertise and interests, enhancing their skills and talents. Time-boxing in Scrum ensures attention to what is most important now, helping teams to avoid distractions and achieve their Sprint Goals.
Openness
Scrum thrives on transparency and honesty. Team members are open about their work, progress, learnings, and challenges. This openness extends to collaboration across disciplines and with stakeholders, which fosters an environment where feedback and continuous learning are integral to the process.
Respect
Respect is fundamental in the Scrum ecosystem. Team members value each other’s skills, experiences, and perspectives, understanding that diverse opinions are essential for constructive disagreement and innovative solutions. Respect also extends to the wider environment, acknowledging and adapting to changes in customer needs and market conditions.
Commitment
In Scrum, commitment goes beyond just promising to complete tasks. It involves dedication to the team, quality, learning, and continuous improvement. Team members commit to the Sprint Goal, the Scrum framework, and working at a sustainable pace, ensuring that they deliver value consistently.
Courage
Courage is essential for tackling complex problems and making bold decisions. Scrum teams need the bravery to admit when requirements are imperfect, to change direction when necessary, and to share all relevant information that can help the team and the organization. This courage supports the promotion of Scrum, self-organization, and empiricism.
By remembering to “Use the FORCE,” Scrum teams can embody these values, leading to improved teamwork, higher productivity, and a more fulfilling work environment. So, channel your inner Jedi and let the FORCE be with you in your Scrum journey!
May the FORCE be with your Scrum Team!
