Decoding Scrum: Measurement, effectiveness and psychological background behind the Scrum work practices

We investigated the psychological underpinnings and effectiveness of Scrum, an agile framework for organizing work processes. In addition, we aimed to develop a questionnaire to measure the implementation of Scrum without using technical jargon. In Study 1, we developed a questionnaire of implementation of Scrum practices on a sample of 260 information and communications technology (ICT) professionals. We then further validated a questionnaire and investigated the relation of Scrum to job design/work motivation theories and desirable work outcomes on a subsample of 91 ICT professionals. In Study 2 we aimed to constructively replicate findings about Scrum effectiveness on a different sample of 94 ICT professionals. In addition, we aimed to show that higher Scrum implementation was also associated with lower turnover intentions. Our 15-item Scrum implementation questionnaire showed construct validity. Furthermore, we showed that job design/work motivation theories can partially serve as a psychologically grounded explanation for the effectiveness of Scrum methodology and that the implementation of Scrum methodology is related to favorable work outcomes. Our paper offers a significant contribution to the literature on job design and agile work practices by (1) offering a novel measure of implementation of Scrum work practices which should be applicable beyond the ICT sector and (2) providing empirical evidence grounding Scrum practices in job design/work motivation theories. It offers valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners interested in optimizing work environments and employee well-being through structured work practices.