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How to become a Scrum MasterChange Management

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Simon BuehringChange Management Models

How to become a Scrum Master

CommunicationScrum Master certification: Open and transparent communication helps employees understand the reasons for change. It reduces uncertainty and anxiety, fostering a supportive environment where individuals are more willing to let go of old habits. suits you best.Leadership engagement

Unlike other management qualifications such as : Leaders play a crucial role in modelling desired behaviours and attitudes. Their involvement is essential in building trust and commitment to the change process.PRINCE2 AgileStakeholder involvement or : Engaging key stakeholders early in the process ensures that their concerns are addressed, and their insights are incorporated into the change strategy. This involvement can lead to more innovative solutions and greater buy-in.AgilePMPsychologically, unfreezing helps individuals and groups prepare for change by breaking down existing mindsets and fostering a readiness to embrace new ideas. By addressing the emotional aspects of change, organisations can create a foundation for successful transformation., there is no copyright associated with Scrum and Scrum tools. In theory, even unaccredited certification bodies can create and sell a ChangingScrum courseThe . However, as there is no established standard of Scrum training, the quality of a Scrum course and its’ associated Scrum certification is only as good as the training provider and certifying body.changing

The number of Scrum certifications available is increasing rapidly, with APMG International and PMI now joining the growing list of  stage represents the transition from old behaviours to new practices. It is the phase where the actual change occurs, requiring careful planning and execution. This stage focuses on:Scrum certificationImplementation providers.: Introducing new processes, technologies, or structures requires clear guidance and support. Training programmes and resources should be made available to facilitate learning and adaptation.

At Support systemsKnowledge Train: Providing support through mentoring or coaching can help employees navigate the challenges of change. It ensures that they have the necessary skills and confidence to adopt new ways of working., we provide certification from Scrum.org and Scrum Alliance. These organisations were founded by two co-creators of creators of Scrum – Ken Schwaber and Mike Cohn, respectively.Feedback mechanisms

While both base their : Regular feedback allows for continuous improvement and adjustment. It helps identify areas of resistance or difficulty, enabling timely interventions to keep the change process on track.Scrum trainingDuring the changing stage, the emphasis is on enabling individuals to adopt new behaviours and integrate them into their daily routines. By focusing on both structural and human elements, organisations can ensure that change is effective and sustainable. on the original Scrum Guide (Ken Schwaber, Jeff Sutherland, et al.), each has a unique approach to training and certification. Read on to learn how each approach differs and why we recommend earning a certification from Scrum.org or Scrum Alliance.Refreezing

Scrum Alliance certifications

Scrum Alliance is one of the largest certification bodies in the Agile community, having certified more than 750,000 practitioners worldwide to date.£1,699 +vat

The Scrum Alliance also organises a global gathering and several regional gatherings twice a year and supports agile community events.

The Scrum Alliance website states:See all dates

[We support] the agile movement as the only member-driven nonprofit certifying body in the agile space…we were founded and funded by the community for the community…We continue to nurture the agile movement by providing education, advocacy, research, community and connection.
Self-paced

Scrum Alliance certifications are somewhat unique in that training is tightly controlled by Scrum Alliance, Scrum Alliance exams are reasonably easy, and Scrum Alliance qualifications must be renewed regularly.Change Management Practitioner (with Foundation) self-paced online

Scrum Alliance offer 3 distinct training paths:

Each has a unique target audience and learning outcomes, keep reading to learn more!Self-paced

Certified Scrum Master (CSM)Change Management Foundation self-paced online

Certified Scrum Master courses are aimed at those new to Agile£799 +vat and who want to serve as a Scrum Master, want to adopt Scrum, or need the tools to be more agile. This can include:

  • New Scrum MastersAdvantages and disadvantages of Lewin’s change model
  • Software EngineersKurt 
  • Business AnalystsLewin’s
  • Project Managers force field analysis and three-stage model of change are renowned for their simplicity and clarity, making them accessible tools for organisations navigating change. One of its primary strengths is its straightforward three-stage process –
  • New Scrum Team members.unfreezing

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) training teaches a general understanding of Scrum and practical ways to apply Scrum in your agile development teams and throughout your organisation., 

Advanced Certified Scrum Master (A-CSM)changing

Advanced Certified Scrum Master (A-CSM) certification is aimed at candidates who already possess a CSM qualification and build on that knowledge with enhanced implementation skills., and 

A-CSM training teaches techniques and skills that go beyond the basic mechanics of refreezingScrum. This structure provides a clear roadmap for implementing change, helping organisations manage transitions systematically. Additionally, the model emphasises the psychological aspects of change, such as reducing stress and enhancing acceptance, which fosters a supportive environment for transformation., expanding into interaction, facilitation, coaching, and team dynamics.However, despite these advantages, Lewin’s model is not without criticism. A notable limitation is its planned approach to change, which some argue oversimplifies emergent and continuous organisational change processes. In today’s dynamic business environment, change often requires flexibility and adaptability, which a linear model may not sufficiently address. Critics also point out that the model assumes a relatively static environment, whereas many organisations face continuous or overlapping changes that demand more iterative processes.

Earning this qualification requires candidates to have at least 1 year of applied experience in a Furthermore, while Lewin’s model is effective in highlighting the human element of change, it may not fully account for technological advancements and rapid market shifts that influence contemporary Scrum Masterchange management or related Scrum role.. Therefore, while Lewin’s change model provides a foundational framework, organisations may need to adapt it or integrate it with other models to address the multifaceted nature of change in today’s world.

Certified Scrum Professional – Scrum Master (CSP – SM)Real-world applications of Lewin’s change model

Those who hold a valid A-CSM qualification and have acquired at least 2 years of applied experience working in a Scrum Master or related role can apply for Certified Scrum Professional – Scrum Master (CSP – SM) certification.Lewin’s change model has been successfully applied across various sectors, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness. These applications provide valuable insights into how organisations can manage transformation effectively.

This qualification paves the way for those who would like to become a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST), Certified Team Coach (CTC) or Certified Enterprise Coach (CEC).Example 1: Application in a corporate setting

  • A Certified Enterprise Coach (CTC) applies coaching skills at the team level and can serve as a mentor to Scrum Master and Scrum teams.In a leading technology firm, Lewin’s model guided a transition to
  • A Certified Enterprise Coach (CEC) applies coaching skills at the organisational transformation level and is equipped to advise Agile change managers and other enterprise-level management roles.agile project management
  • A Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) is licensed to provide CSM training through accredited training organisations.. During the 

Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)unfreezing

For those who want to advance their careers to a more senior role, or enjoy collaborating with stakeholders and clients, a  stage, management identified the need for agility to stay competitive. Workshops and discussions were held to prepare employees for the shift. In the Certified Scrum Product Ownerchanging (CSPO) course will teach you how to ensure your customers receive valuable, impactful products. This  phase, Scrum certificationagile methodologies can benefit: were introduced through training programmes, supported by mentors to ease the transition. The 

  • New Agile Product Ownersrefreezing
  • Agile Business Analysts stage involved integrating these practices into the company culture, reinforced by regular feedback sessions.
  • Project ManagersOutcome
  • Product Managers: The move resulted in improved project delivery times and enhanced team collaboration.
  • Scrum Team members

al marketplace. stage ensured the new process was standard practice, with ongoing technical support provided.

Certified Scrum Professional – Product Owner (CSP – PO)Outcome

Those who hold a valid A-CSPO qualification and have acquired at least 2 years of applied experience working in an Agile Product Owner or related role can apply for Certified Scrum Professional – Product Owner (CSP – PO) certification.: This change increased efficiency and accuracy in patient record management.

This qualification paves the way for those who would like to become a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST), Certified Team Coach (CTC) or Certified Enterprise Coach (CEC).Lesson

  • A Certified Enterprise Coach (CTC) applies coaching skills at the team level and can serve as a mentor to Agile Project Managers and Programme Managers.: Continuous support and training are vital for successful technological adoption.
  • A Certified Enterprise Coach (CEC) applies coaching skills at the organisational transformation level, and is equipped to advise Agile Product Owners, and other enterprise-level management roles.Example 3: Educational institutions
  • A Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) is licensed to provide CSPO training through accredited training organisations.A university applied Lewin’s model to innovate its teaching methodologies. 

Scrum.org certificationsUnfreezing

Scrum.org was founded by Ken Schwaber (who was also a founding member of Scrum Alliance). Differing opinions on how  involved recognising the limitations of traditional teaching. The Scrum certificationchanging and training should be administered led to Schwaber leaving Scrum Alliance to found their primary competitor – Scrum.org. phase saw the introduction of digital tools and interactive techniques. 

Scrum.org takes a different approach to Scrum training. While Scrum Alliance tightly controls its course materials and the way training is delivered, Scrum.org trainers are given more freedom in how they deliver course information. Scrum.org training courses choose to focus on validation of learned skills through testing.Refreezing

That means Scrum.org exams are more difficult than those required by Scrum Alliance, with longer exams, harder questions, and a required pass rate of 85%. You’ll be expected to master course content before attempting the exam if you wish to pass. embedded these new practices through policy changes and faculty workshops.

A major benefit of Scrum.org qualifications is that, unlike Scrum Alliance qualifications, Scrum.org qualifications do not expire and are valid for life.Outcome

Like Scrum Alliance, Scrum.org offers distinct training paths that cater to specific roles within the : Student engagement and learning outcomes improved significantly.Scrum frameworkLesson.: Institutional support and policy alignment are key to sustaining educational change.

Professional Scrum Master I (PSM-I) and 

The Professional Scrum Master, level 1 (PSM-I) assessment is available to anyone who wishes to validate their knowledge of the Scrum framework and its application. Those who pass the assessment will receive the industry recognised PSM I Certification.ADKAR

The PSM I course is suitable for:. Each model offers unique perspectives and methodologies for managing change within organisations.

Much like its Scrum Alliance equivalent, this course is aimed at those new to Scrum and want to learn the basics of the method. focuses on individual change and is goal-oriented, emphasising 

Professional Scrum Master II (PSM-II)Awareness

The Professional Scrum Master level 2 (PSM II) assessment is aimed at those who want to demonstrate their ability to apply the , Scrum frameworkDesire to practical scenarios and solve complex problems in the real world. Passing the exam will award you with an internationally recognised PSM II Certification as proof of your advanced knowledge of Scrum and the role of the , Scrum MasterKnowledge., 

Professional Scrum Master III (PSM-III)Ability

The Professional Scrum Master level 3 (PSM III) assessment is available to anyone who has passed the PSM I and PSM II. PSM III certification is proof that holders have a deep understanding of the application of Scrum, Scrum practices, and the Scrum Values and have the ability to apply , and ScrumReinforcement in a variety of complex team and organisational situations.. It is beneficial for understanding and managing personal impacts during organisational changes.

Professional Scrum Developer I (PSD-I)Lewin’s model is preferred when a concise and psychologically grounded approach is needed. It is particularly effective in scenarios where resistance to change is prominent, and fostering a supportive environment is crucial. However, in complex or large-scale organisational transformations, Kotter’s detailed steps or ADKAR’s individual focus might offer additional advantages.

Professional Scrum Developer qualifications demonstrate your ability to work effectively as part of a Scrum Development Team, and your understanding of how Ultimately, the choice of model depends on the organisational context and the specific challenges faced. Integrating elements from different frameworks can often provide a more comprehensive strategy, catering to both structural and human elements of change.ScrumEnhance your skills with our expert-led courses can be used to develop products.

Over the 3 days, students gain a real-world view of what it is like to build software with Scrum. You’ll collaborate over a series of Sprints applying agile practices and using the Scrum framework to manage complexity.Instructor-led

The focus of the class is on how to use Scrum to deliver functional iterations of software and how to improve the way you work.Change Management Practitioner (with Foundation) course

What is the best Scrum certification?£799 +vat

Each training path fulfils a specific need within a Scrum team. Both Scrum Alliance and Scrum.org offer similar qualifications. All that differs is how courses are delivered and how your knowledge is validated. We’ve outlined some of the main differences below for easy comparison.Influence tactics and work outcomes in change management

Scrum Alliance







PRINCE2 ® , MSP
, PRINCE2 ® Agile, RESILIA ®