The Definition of Scrum

Scrum (n): An [agile] framework within which people can address complex adaptive problems, while productively and creatively delivering products of the highest possible value.

Scrum is the most widely used and popular agile framework. The term agile describes a specific set of foundational principles and values for organizing and managing complex work.

Agility is the new way of working. Scrum works by breaking large products and services into small pieces that can be completed (and potentially released) by a cross-functional team in a short timeframe. Scrum teams inspect each batch of functionality as it is completed and then adapt what will be created next based on learning and feedback, minimising risk and reducing waste.

This cycle repeats until the full product or service is delivered—one that meets customer needs because the business has the opportunity to adjust the fit at the end of each timeframe. Because Scrum teams are continuously creating only the highest priority chunks of functionality, the business is assured maximum return on investment.