The Scrum Master Dilemma: Internals vs. Externals
Everyone, at least once in life, has come across terms like agility, Scrum, or Scrum Masters. The Scrum Master – the one who tries to keep everything on track. But when it’s time to hire a Scrum Master, there’s a big organizational dilemma: Go with externals, or not? Let’s explore the big question together.
Why Consider External Scrum Masters?
- Fresh Eyes and New Ideas: External Scrum Masters have seen a lot. They’ve worked with different companies and know what works well (and what doesn’t). This means they can bring in new ideas and spot problems that people who’ve been with the company for a while might miss.
- Special Skills and Tricks: These folks often have special skills and tricks up their sleeves. They’ve been around the block and know the latest and greatest techniques to help teams work better and faster.
- Neutral Problem Solvers: When conflicts arise, external Scrum Masters can step in without any biases. They’re not tangled up in office politics or friendships, so they can solve problems with a clear head and help everyone get back on track.
- Quick Learners: Even though they’re new to the company, external Scrum Masters catch on fast. They’ve done this before and know the ropes, which means they can jump right in and start making a difference.
But what about internal Scrum Masters?
- Deep Understanding of the Company: Internal hires already know the ins and outs of how the company works. They’re familiar faces who understand the company’s culture, which can be a big plus.
- Built-in Relationships: Since they’ve been around, internal Scrum Masters have already built relationships with team members. They know who to talk to when things get tough, which can speed up problem-solving
- Invested in Company Success: Because they’re already part of the team, internal Scrum Masters are deeply invested in the company’s success. They’re not just there for a paycheck – they genuinely care about seeing the company do well.
What would the Pragmatic Agilist do?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both internal and external Scrum Masters bring valuable skills to the table. It all depends on what your team needs most right now. Internal Scrum Masters might be the way to go if you need someone who understands the company inside and out and has already built strong relationships.
But if you’re looking for fresh ideas, specialised skills, and a neutral perspective, an external hire could be just what your team needs to take things to the next level.