Agile & Scrum Interview Questions for Project Managers

 5. What is the difference between Agile and Scrum?
Agile is a broad methodology; Scrum is a specific framework within Agile, focusing on sprints and defined roles.

6. How does Scrum handle changes in requirements?
New requirements are added to the Product Backlog, prioritized by the Product Owner for future Sprints, ensuring flexibility.

7. What is the Definition of Done (DoD) in Scrum?
The DoD is a shared quality criteria ensuring the Increment is complete and releasable.

8. What are the three pillars of Scrum?
Transparency, Inspection, and Adaptation, which drive empirical decision-making.

9. What is the difference between a Product Backlog and a Sprint Backlog?
The Product Backlog is the full list of requirements; the Sprint Backlog is a subset selected for the current Sprint.

10. What is the difference between Agile and Waterfall methodologies?
Agile is iterative and adaptive; Waterfall is linear, with fixed phases and less flexibility.

11. How do you prioritize tasks in an Agile environment?
Use techniques like MoSCoW or WSJF, guided by the Product Owner’s prioritization based on value and risk.

12.What is the difference between Agile and Lean?
Agile focuses on iterative delivery and customer collaboration; Lean emphasizes waste reduction and efficiency.

13. How do you handle dependencies between teams in an Agile setting?
Coordinate through Scrum of Scrums, use SAFe for scaling, and ensure clear communication.

14. What is the role of technical debt in Agile projects?
Technical debt represents shortcuts that may require future rework. Manage it by allocating time for refactoring.

15. How do you ensure quality in Agile development?
Implement a strong Definition of Done, use automated testing, and conduct regular reviews.

16. What is the concept of velocity in Scrum?
Velocity measures the average work (story points) completed per Sprint, aiding in forecasting.

17. What is the difference between Kanban and Scrum?
Scrum uses fixed-length sprints; Kanban focuses on continuous flow with work-in-progress limits.

18. How do you conduct a Retrospective effectively?
Create a safe space, use structured formats (e.g., Start-Stop-Continue), and ensure actionable outcomes.

19. What is the importance of customer collaboration in Agile?
It ensures the product meets evolving needs through continuous feedback and iterative delivery.

20. How do you handle resistance to change when introducing Agile?
Educate stakeholders, demonstrate Agile benefits, and involve teams in the transition process.

21. What are some common anti-patterns in Scrum and how do you address them?
Examples include micromanaging or skipping ceremonies. Address through coaching and reinforcing Scrum values.

22. What is the role of automation in Agile testing?
Automation speeds up testing, ensures consistency, and supports continuous integration.

23. What are four differences between risk impact and risk probability?

• • Risk Impact: Measures the severity of a risk’s effect (e.g., cost, schedule).
  • Risk Probability: Assesses the likelihood of a risk occurring.
  • Focus: Impact focuses on consequences; probability focuses on occurrence chance.
  • Mitigation: Impact drives response planning; probability informs prioritization.

24 . Explain the role of Kanban boards within Agile.
Kanban boards visualize workflow, track tasks, and limit work-in-progress to optimize flow.

25. List some Agile project management tools and their roles in project planning.
Jira (workflow tracking), Trello (task visualization), Asana (task organization), Azure DevOps (delivery pipeline).

26. Who is instrumental in the Agile estimation technique, and why is estimation necessary?
The Development Team estimates tasks using techniques like Planning Poker. Estimation aids in planning and managing expectations despite potential inaccuracies.

27. How do you handle scope creep in Agile projects?
Manage through Product Backlog prioritization, stakeholder alignment, and clear Sprint Goals.

28. What is the role of the Product Owner?
The Product Owner maximizes value by managing the Product Backlog and aligning with stakeholders.

29. How do you measure the success of an Agile project?
Success is measured by delivering value, meeting customer needs, and achieving business goals, tracked via metrics like velocity and customer satisfaction.

30. What is the concept of a Sprint in Scrum?
A Sprint is a time-boxed period (1-4 weeks) where the team delivers a potentially releasable Increment.