Before we understand what Scrum Master is, Let us understand what exactly Scrum is. Scrum is nothing but a methodology or a framework on which Agile manifests. Basically, it is a watertight yet lightweight process to manage and control the software development of product in todayâ??s fast changing environment and world.

Who is Scrum Master?

Now that we know what Scrum is, let us understand what or who Scrum Master is? As the name suggests, Scrum Master is a Master who runs the Scrum Show in Agile just like a Ring Master who runs the show in the Circus. Without Scrum Master, the Scrum Show is incomplete. He is a coordinator between the Scrum Team and the Product Owner.

Scrum Master Certification is called as a Servant Leader of the Scrum Team. Yes, you read it right- Servant Leader. Both the words â??Servantâ?? and â??Leaderâ?? may sound contradictory. But Scrum Master works as a servant and directs or Leads the Scrum Team as a Leader. Typically, a certified Scrum Master: -

• Is a facilitator for the team
• Represents management to the project
• Has a specific role with well-articulated responsibilities
• Is responsible for enacting scrum values and practices
• Removes impediments
• Shields the team from external distractions

What does a Certified Scrum Master do?

Behind the name is a role, and a pattern of duties and responsibilities. The name "Scrum Master" represents a pattern known as Servant Leadership.

• A certified Scrum Master facilitates a team not by telling them what to do, but by removing impediments that get in their way and coaching them in agile best practices.
• Shields the team from diversions and distractions
• Facilitates planning sessions
• Facilitates reviews and retrospectives
• Coaches the team in agile best practices
• Helps the team to collaborate better
• Helps the team to reach consensus during the daily scrum.
• Advocates the team's position
• Anticipates
• Finds ways to remove team impediments
• Makes sure daily standups happen, and are conducted properly
• Encourages transparency and associated metrics
• Understands and explains the teamâ??s progress to interested stakeholders
• Arbitrates between team members when necessary

A Certified Scrum Master not only facilitates the Scrum team but also ensures that the Product- Owner knows how to arrange the Product Backlog to maximize value. He continuously strives hard so that the Scrum Team is focused and not deviates from the Goal. He also contributes at Organizational level by working with other Scrum Masters to increase the effectiveness of the application of Scrum in the organization.