What is a Rotating Scrum Master?

In agile development, the Scrum Master is the one who keeps the team on track with Scrum practices. But what if the Scrum Master role could rotate among team members? This concept, known as the “rotating Scrum Master,” is becoming more popular, especially among teams that value shared ownership and skill-building.

Instead of designating a single Scrum Master, a team may decide to rotate this role every sprint or every few weeks. This approach has both its advocates and skeptics, and it’s worth exploring whether it might be right for your team.

Why Rotate the Scrum Master Role?

So, what’s the benefit of having a rotating Scrum Master? Here are a few key reasons why some teams choose to go this route:

Promotes Shared Responsibility: When every team member has a turn as Scrum Master, it emphasizes that the agile process is everyone’s responsibility, not just one person’s job. This shared responsibility can strengthen team cohesion and accountability.
Builds Skills Across the Team: Acting as Scrum Master is a great way to develop leadership and facilitation skills. By rotating the role, team members can learn more about Scrum, communication, and problem-solving, which they carry over to their primary roles.
Reduces Burnout: Being a Scrum Master, especially for multiple teams, can be a demanding job. Rotating the role spreads the load and prevents one person from getting overwhelmed. It also keeps the role from feeling too routine, which can improve engagement.

How a Rotating Scrum Master Works

When a team decides to rotate the Scrum Master, it typically follows a few guidelines:

Choose a Rotation Cycle: Many teams rotate every sprint, while others do so monthly or quarterly. The key is finding a cadence that works for everyone.
Provide Training and Support: New Scrum Masters, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the role, should receive some training or mentorship. An agile coach or experienced Scrum Master can offer guidance as needed.
Ensure Continuity: It’s helpful for outgoing Scrum Masters to share insights and progress with their successors. This keeps the team moving smoothly, even as the role rotates.
Be Patient with the Process: Like any change, this approach requires adjustment time. Teams should be open to learning and improving as they go.

When a Rotating Scrum Master Works Best

Rotating the Scrum Master role doesn’t suit every team. It works best when team members are relatively experienced with agile practices or when there’s strong mentorship available. If a team is brand new to Scrum, starting with a dedicated Scrum Master might be more beneficial.

Additionally, teams that value flexibility and continuous learning may thrive with a rotating Scrum Master. It’s a great fit for those who enjoy experimenting with team structures and who are willing to take on shared challenges.

Potential Drawbacks

Of course, there are some potential downsides. Some teams find that the rotating Scrum Master approach can lead to inconsistencies in practices, especially if there’s a significant skill gap among team members. It can also be tricky to manage if team members have high workloads in their primary roles, which could detract from their ability to focus on Scrum Master duties.

In Conclusion

The rotating Scrum Master model isn’t for everyone, but it’s an innovative approach for agile teams looking to foster shared ownership, build leadership skills, and prevent burnout. If your team is curious and open to trying something new, it could be a rewarding way to approach Scrum. Just remember to be flexible, support each other, and enjoy the growth and insights that come with sharing the role.