Introduction
When your team says, “We don’t want Scrum anymore,” it’s not just about the framework—it’s a cry for change. Whether you’re a Scrum Master, Agile Coach, or Product Owner, this moment can feel like a crisis—but it’s also an opportunity.
Across Reddit, LinkedIn, and X, practitioners are voicing frustrations with Scrum: too many meetings, lack of autonomy, and rigid rituals that don’t fit their context. But is Scrum the problem—or how it’s being applied?
Why Teams Say “No More Scrum”
Scrum, at its core, is a lightweight framework designed to help teams deliver value iteratively. But when misapplied, it can feel like bureaucracy in Agile clothing.
Common reasons teams rebel include:
- Meeting overload: Daily stand-ups, refinements, plannings, retrospectives—when stacked poorly, they drain energy.Reddit
- Lack of autonomy: Teams feel micromanaged or forced into rituals without understanding the “why.”LinkedIn
- Misaligned expectations: Managers expect predictability; teams face complexity and change.
- Cargo cult Scrum: Teams go through the motions without embracing Agile principles.
“Scrum worsens every situation it touches.”
But others argue the issue isn’t Scrum itself, but how it’s implemented:
“The entire reason Scrum fails is because management (and teams) think they can take it or leave it.”
A Real-World Scenario: When Scrum Becomes the Scapegoat
Context: A mid-sized fintech company with multiple Scrum teams.
Problem: One team, after several sprints, expresses frustration:
- They feel overwhelmed by meetings.
- They lack clarity on goals.
- They perceive Scrum as restrictive.
Actions Taken:
- Open Dialogue: The Scrum Master facilitated a session to understand concerns without judgment.
- Identify Pain Points: Meetings were re-evaluated for necessity and efficiency.
- Reinforce Purpose: The team revisited the principles behind Scrum events to align on value.
- Empower Autonomy: Adjustments were made to allow the team more control over their processes.
Outcome: The team didn’t abandon Scrum but adapted it to better fit their context, leading to improved morale and productivity.
Practical Steps to Address Team Frustrations
- Listen Actively: Create a safe space for the team to express concerns.
- Assess the Implementation: Determine if Scrum practices are being applied dogmatically or thoughtfully.
- Educate and Align: Ensure everyone understands the purpose behind Scrum events and roles.
- Adapt as Needed: Tailor Scrum practices to fit the team’s unique context while maintaining core principles.
- Monitor and Reflect: Regularly check in on the team’s health and adjust practices accordingly.
Conclusion: It’s Not About Scrum—It’s About the Team
When a team says, “We don’t want Scrum anymore,” it’s a signal to pause and reflect. It’s an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, reassess practices, and co-create a process that truly serves the team and the organization.
Have you faced a similar situation? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other and continue to evolve our Agile practices.
