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Who Should Run the Sprint Review: Scrum Master or Product Owner?

Introduction

If your Sprint Review feels like a one-way presentation, you’re missing the point.
This critical Scrum event should be a feedback-rich, collaborative session — not a passive demo.


What’s the Real Purpose of the Sprint Review?

The Sprint Review isn’t just about showing what was built. It’s a working session where the team and stakeholders inspect the product increment and adapt the Product Backlog based on new insights.

When done right, it helps:

  • Align on product direction
  • Gather valuable feedback early
  • Improve stakeholder engagement

Who Should Facilitate: Product Owner or Scrum Master?

The Product Owner often leads the conversation by setting context — explaining the Sprint Goal, backlog items, and how they deliver customer value. They’re essential in gathering and acting on feedback.

The Scrum Master, however, plays a vital facilitator role — ensuring the session remains focused, inclusive, and productive. They help everyone engage meaningfully and protect the event from becoming a status meeting.


The Best Approach: Shared Facilitation

In many teams, co-facilitation works best:

  • Product Owner leads the product narrative
  • Scrum Master ensures structure and flow
  • Developers present their work firsthand

This approach increases ownership and transparency.


Conclusion

  • Don’t focus on who leads, focus on how it’s led
  • Make Sprint Reviews interactive, not performative
  • Rotate presenters and capture feedback live

👉 Turn your Sprint Review into a conversation — not a broadcast.