Scrum Master Journey

Being a scrum master is not a certificate, it is a journey. It is not a job, it is a vocation.

Scrum Master Excellence

The Scrum Master Journey is a two-year program of education for scrum masters in pursuit of personal excellence. There are three elements to this journey, self study, mentoring and interactive workshops, each contributing to the student's discovery and realisation of his or her own abilities and potential. Optionally, the program offers Scrum Alliance certification at beginner, advanced and professional levels.

The full program is described in detail here: The Scrum Master Journey. This page offers a shorter summary of the program.

Phase 1

Scrum Master as Evangelist and Conductor: One who lives Scrum out loud, whilst creating rhythm and harmony in the work environment. The beginning Scrum Master is inspired to teach Scrum to developers and socialise this way of working across the wider organisation.

Read the Certified Scrum Master description. While the two-day workshop is a requirement, certification is optional.

Phase 2

Scrum Master as Court Jester or Prophet: One who has gained the trust of others and has the courage within to speak truth to power. This stage transcends and includes the law-giver/evangelist.

The Advanced CSM certificate is offered at the end of this phase. Certification is optional; it requires additional self-directed learning, and carries an extra cost.

Phase 3

Scrum Master as Gardener: One who acts as an organic gardener, lovingly preparing the organisational soil, letting change emerge, nurturing it, guiding the growth patiently, gently and naturally, and removing weeds without introducing toxins. This stage transcends and includes both the law-giver and the jester/prophet.

The Certified Scrum Professional-Scrum Master certificate is offered at the end of this phase. Certification is optional; it requires additional self-directed learning, and carries an extra cost.

Scrum Master Purpose

Move unhurriedly, look people in the eyes, pause, listen, reflect; above all, seek to become unnecessary.
— from The Liberated Scrum Master