Sprint Review

Sprint Review: Understand, Prepare, and Succeed in This Key Scrum Ceremony

In the Scrum framework, every ceremony has a clear purpose. The Sprint Review is one of the most important events: it allows the team to inspect the increment, gather feedback, and adapt the Product Backlog. It ensures the team is delivering value and moving in the right direction.

What Is the Sprint Review?

The Sprint Review takes place at the end of each Sprint. Contrary to popular belief, it is not just a demo — it is a collaborative working session where the main goal is:

To inspect the increment and adapt the Product Backlog based on feedback, context changes, or new opportunities.

The Sprint Review includes:

• The Development Team
• The Scrum Master
• The Product Owner
• Stakeholders

Recommended duration:

• 1–2 hours for a two-week Sprint
• Up to 4 hours for a one-month Sprint

Objectives of the Sprint Review

1. Present the “Done” Increment

The team demonstrates the features completed according to the Definition of Done. This is not about slides — it’s about a working product.

2. Gather Feedback

Feedback is at the heart of the Sprint Review. Stakeholders react, ask questions, and suggest improvements that may impact future work.

3. Align on Product Vision

The Product Owner shares the current state of the product, business priorities, and goals for the next Sprint.

4. Update the Product Backlog

Based on feedback and new insights, the backlog may be refined, reordered, or expanded to reflect updated business needs.

How to Prepare for a Sprint Review

Product Owner Responsibilities

• Select the completed backlog items to present.
• Prepare an overview of progress and priorities.
• Ensure the right stakeholders are invited.

Development Team Responsibilities

• Ensure the increment is stable, tested, and ready to demonstrate.
• Prepare functional scenarios for the demonstration.
• Present work from the user perspective, not the technical one.

Scrum Master Responsibilities

• Facilitate the preparation of the event.
• Ensure the ceremony remains collaborative and focused on value.
• Help maintain a productive and respectful environment.

Conclusion

The Sprint Review is much more than a simple demonstration. It is a strategic moment where the team connects with stakeholders, inspects real progress, and adapts the direction of the product. When done well, it builds transparency, trust, and continuous improvement — the true spirit of Scrum.