Optum Global Solutions Agile Coach and Scrum Master Interview Questions and Answers

Agile values from manifesto

• Individuals and interactions over processes and tools

• Working software over comprehensive documentation

• Customer collaboration over contract negotiation

• Responding to change over following a plan

Exposure to SAFe and Kanban methodologies in previous roles.

• Implemented SAFe framework in previous project to scale Agile practices across multiple teams

• Utilized Kanban boards to visualize workflow and optimize team's efficiency

• Facilitated ceremonies such as PI Planning, Scrum of Scrums, and Daily Standups in SAFe environment

It indicates that work is not being completed at the expected rate.

• A straight line on a burn down chart indicates that work is not being completed as planned.

• It may suggest that the team is not making progress or facing obstacles.

• It could also indicate that the initial estimation of work was incorrect.

Scrum Master should be able to handle teams of various sizes and be familiar with a range of technologies.

• Scrum Master should have experience working with teams of different sizes, from small to large.

• Scrum Master should be knowledgeable about various technologies commonly used in software development, such as Agile tools, project management software, and communication platforms.

• Scrum Master should be able to adapt the...read more

Sprint duration should be consistent to allow for predictability and stability in the team's workflow.

• Sprint duration should generally remain consistent to allow the team to establish a predictable cadence.

• Changing sprint duration frequently can disrupt the team's rhythm and impact their ability to plan and deliver work effectively.

• If there is a valid reason for changing sprint duration, such as a major project change ...read more

Team success in Scrum can be measured through various metrics such as velocity, sprint burndown charts, and team satisfaction.

• Velocity: Measure the amount of work completed in each sprint. A consistent increase in velocity indicates team success.

• Sprint burndown charts: Monitor how well the team is progressing towards completing the sprint goal. A steady burndown chart shows success.

• Team satisfaction: Conduct regular re...read more

The Agile Manifesto talks about the anti-pattern of excessive documentation.

• The Agile Manifesto values 'Working software over comprehensive documentation'.

• This principle emphasizes the importance of focusing on delivering working software rather than spending excessive time on documentation.

• Excessive documentation can lead to delays, miscommunication, and reduced flexibility in responding to change.

• Teams should aim to ...read more

Conflict resolution involves understanding the root cause, active listening, finding common ground, and facilitating open communication.

• Identify the root cause of the conflict

• Practice active listening to understand all perspectives

• Find common ground and areas of agreement

• Facilitate open communication and encourage dialogue

• Use techniques like mediation or negotiation if necessary

As a Scrum Master, I support both the Product Owner (PO) and the developers.

• The Scrum Master acts as a servant-leader to both the PO and the developers.

• Supporting the PO involves helping them with backlog management, facilitating communication with stakeholders, and ensuring the team understands and delivers on the product vision.

• Supporting the developers includes removing any obstacles or impediments that may hinder t...read more

The first thing I would do as a Scrum Master is to establish a clear understanding of the team's goals and objectives.

• Hold a team kickoff meeting to introduce myself and establish rapport

• Facilitate a discussion to clarify the team's vision and mission

• Ensure that the team understands the Scrum framework and their roles

• Identify any immediate impediments or challenges and work towards resolving them

• Set up regular communic...read more

I want to become a Scrum Master because I am passionate about facilitating effective teamwork and driving continuous improvement in software development projects.

• I have a strong understanding of Agile principles and methodologies.

• I have experience in leading and coaching teams to deliver high-quality software.

• I enjoy creating a collaborative and transparent work environment.

• I am motivated by the opportunity to help tea...read more

The future goal is to continuously improve the Scrum team's performance. If the Scrum Master is removed, the team may face challenges in maintaining their agile practices.

• The future goal is to continuously improve the Scrum team's performance.

• The Scrum Master plays a crucial role in facilitating the team's agile practices.

• If the Scrum Master is removed, the team may face challenges in maintaining their agile practices.

• ...read more