Scrum Master
The Scrum Master is an Agile coach who facilitates the collaboration and efficiency of development teams by following the Scrum methodology.
The Scrum Master acts as a coach and facilitator for his team. Unlike the Product Owner, who takes on the role of project manager, the Scrum Master focuses on the application of and adherence to the Scrum methodology. He ensures that the various team members are involved in the sprints and that they adopt the Agile principles. The Scrum Master organises and leads the Sprint Planning, Daily Scrums and Sprint Reviews agile ceremonies, with the aim of monitoring the project's progress and compliance with the Scrum framework.
As a facilitator, the Scrum Master has no hierarchical authority over team members. His or her main objective is to create an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation and efficiency.
The Scrum Master has expertise in Agile methods (agile manifesto) and the Scrum framework. He has mastered Scrum in theory and practice. They know how to lead Scrum ceremonies (Sprint Planning, Daily Scrums, Sprint Reviews, Sprint Retrospectives). They have technical knowledge of web and/or software development, enabling them to identify and understand the technical issues facing the team.
Knowledge of other agile methods, such as extreme programming and test-driven development (TDD), is beneficial.
The Scrum Master is a thinker, coming up with innovative ideas and solutions to problems encountered by the team. He is a good teacher and knows how to pass on knowledge and train team members in Scrum practices. He communicates effectively, clearly and transparently and ensures that everyone is well informed of progress. He knows how to manage his time: this is an essential principle for respecting schedules and achieving sprint objectives. His patience and team spirit enable him to motivate the team in difficult moments.
To become a Scrum Master, you need to master the agile and Scrum methods. You need to know how to cooperate and motivate your colleagues, and have an affinity for web or development technologies.
Although there is no diploma specialising in Scrum, these professionals often have a degree in computer science or engineering at bac+5 level.
In addition, certification is highly recommended. Two organisations, Scrum.org and Scrum Alliance, offer certifications such as Professional Scrum Developer (PSD), Professional Scrum Master (PSM) and Professional Scrum Product Owner (PSPO).
A Scrum certification, such as the Professional Scrum Master ™ (PSM), organised into three levels (PSM I, II, III), is an advantage for distinguishing yourself from another candidate when recruiting.
The Scrum Master may choose to become a Product Owner and focus on product vision and priority management. Alternatively, he or she may become an Agile Coach or Project Director and work on larger-scale projects.
With experience and a network of contacts, they can set up their own consulting company, training other project managers in the Scrum method. In the same vein, he can offer individual or group agile coaching.