DASM

The PMI Disciplined Agile Scrum Master (DASM) exam focuses on applying Disciplined Agile Delivery (DAD) principles and practices within a Scrum framework. Here are the main points covered, categorized for clarity:

I. Understanding Disciplined Agile (DA):

• DA's Purpose & Value: Understanding DA's goal of providing a hybrid, adaptable approach to software delivery, addressing the limitations of solely Scrum or other agile methods. Knowing when DA is appropriate over other frameworks.
• DA Principles: Grasping the core principles that guide DA practices, such as risk management, continuous improvement, and collaboration.
• DA Lifecycle: Understanding the different lifecycles within DA and choosing the appropriate one based on project context. This includes understanding the concepts of Lean, Agile, and other methodologies. Knowing when to use various approaches like Scrum, Kanban, XP, etc.
• DA Goals: Learning how DA helps teams achieve higher levels of agility, predictability, and quality in their projects. How it addresses scaling challenges.

II. Applying DA within Scrum:

• Scrum Master Role in a DA Context: Going beyond traditional Scrum Master responsibilities to encompass broader roles in planning, risk management, and process improvement, within a DA framework. Understanding how the Scrum Master facilitates the adoption and application of DAD practices.
• Integrating DA Practices into Scrum: Knowing how to incorporate DA practices such as governance, risk management, and continuous improvement into existing Scrum processes smoothly. Understanding the different types of governance and how to tailor them for projects.
• Addressing Scrum Challenges with DA: Understanding how DA can effectively address common challenges faced within Scrum implementations, such as scaling, dealing with complex projects, and adapting to changing needs.
• Adapting DA to Different Contexts: Knowing how to adapt and tailor DA practices to different organizational structures, project contexts, and team capabilities.

III. DA Tools and Techniques:

• Goal-Oriented Approach: Understanding the importance of setting clear and measurable goals and aligning team efforts towards achieving them.
• Risk Management: Understanding and implementing various risk management techniques within a DA context.
• Process Improvement: Knowing how to continuously monitor and improve processes using DA principles.
• Collaboration and Communication: Mastering effective communication and collaboration techniques within the team and across stakeholders.

IV. Governance and Scalability:

• Scaling Agile with DA: Understanding how DA provides a framework for scaling agile practices across larger organizations and more complex projects.
• Enterprise Agile: Understanding how DA applies within the broader context of enterprise-level agile transformations.
• Balancing Agility and Governance: Finding a balance between the flexibility of agile and the structure provided by established organizational governance.

In essence, the DASM exam tests your ability to understand and apply DAD principles in a practical context, especially within the confines of a Scrum framework. It's less about rote memorization and more about applying a problem-solving approach to using DAD to improve agile projects. Focus on understanding the why behind DA's methodologies, not just the how .