Certified ScrumMaster
Reality Based, Certified Agile Workshop with Everything You Need to Be a CSM
| Date |
Mon Mar 31 to Wed Apr 2
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM (EST) |
| Delivery |
Live, virtual, instructor led, interactive workshop. 100% live with no pre-recorded content. |
| Fees |
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| Trainer | Don Patti Agile Coach & Trainer |
| Includes |
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The Scrum Alliance Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM) was the first and is still the most respected agile certification. It is the starting point on your journey to agility or a reflection point if you are an experienced practitioner.
Grow-Lean’s CSM is a reality based, fun, interactive, hands-on, workshop where everything you need is included, with no surprise cost. You get material to prepare for the session, an engaging event delivered by an experience agile coach / trainer, and six full practice exams.
After the session we pay for, and register you, with the Scrum Alliance. You can take the exam immediately or you can wait. You take it from any computer/smartphone with Internet access.
After passing the exam you are a Certified ScrumMaster. More importantly you are in a better position to advance your career and your organization.
Click to Register NowPolicies
Grow-Lean has policies to protect you, fellow students and Grow-Lean.
Familiarize yourself with these policies and use our Contact Us Form if you have any questions.
Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies
Overview of Cancellation Policies
Grow-Lean has policies around situations where you as an attendee, or Grow-Lean as a host, must cancel or reschedule. Grow-Lean's policies are consumer-friendly in recognition that unforeseen things happen, but Grow-Lean asks for thoughtfulness about canceling late so Grow-Lean can continue to put their customers first.
By registering yourself or others for the session, or by being a registrant, you agree to the policies below. If you have any questions, please contact Grow-Lean.
Cancellations
Cancellation requests received at least sixteen (16) days prior to the event will receive a 100% refund minus a 5% credit card processing fee.
Cancellation requests received fifteen (15) to eight (8) days prior to the event will receive a 100% refund minus a 5% credit card processing fee and a $125 late cancellation fee.
Cancellation requests received seven (7) or less days prior to the event will receive a credit equal to 50% of the amount paid that can be applied to any future event that the registrant will take in the next twelve months.
Reschedule Requests
Reschedule requests received at least sixteen (16) days prior to the event will have no fees for the first request. Additional reschedule requests will be subject to a $125 transfer fee.
Reschedule requests received less than sixteen (16) days prior to the event will be subject to a $125 transfer fee.
Grow-Lean Reschedule Events
Grow-Lean tries to avoid rescheduling. If Grow-Lean needs to reschedule, all registrants will promptly receive a 100% refund. Registrants may decide to be transferred into the rescheduled event, or another upcoming event, instead of the refund if they desire.
Grow-Lean Trainer Substitution
In the event where the original listed trainer cannot deliver the course, Grow-Lean reserves the right to substitute a trainer. This is a rare occurrence, but this policy allows Grow-Lean to deliver a course while minimizing the student impact. Trainers provided in this event will have met Grow-Lean's high quality standards to ensure registrants receive valuable training.
Session Attendance and Participation Policies
Session Policy Summary
Grow-Lean policies around class (session) participation and course material usage are designed to protect your privacy, the privacy of other students, the intellectual property rights of Grow-Lean LLC, and to maximize the learning outcome for all. By registering for the session, or by being a registrant, you agree to the policies below. If you have any questions, please contact us via our Contact Us form at https://www.grow-lean.com/ContactUs.
Camera Use Policy
You agree to have a functioning camera, which may be on a secondary device (like a phone) on, and facing yourself for the majority of the training. You may turn your camera off for short periods when needed (like when eating).
If your camera is not functioning, or your bandwidth becomes too limited to support video, you will inform the trainer and participate actively to ensure you stay engaged in the session.
If there is a specific reason why you cannot be on camera, contact Grow-Lean LLC prior to the event so that we can make an exception.
Picture Taking
Grow-Lean will sometimes take pictures or videos during the session. Attendees will be notified in advance. If you do not want to be included in a picture or a video, you may turn your camera off during those times. By keeping your camera on, you acknowledge that your image, or edits thereof, may be used for promotion or other purposes. Grow-Lean will try to ensure that those in a video are presented in a professional fashion.
You may not take pictures of any students in the session without the express consent of all attendees and understand that doing so may be a criminal offense depending on the locations where attendees are participating from.
Student Accountability for Training Outcomes
You may use the Contact Us form at https://www.grow-lean.com/ContactUs, or inform the trainer, or both if you believe that there is anything in the training that is preventing you from having a high quality learning experience.
You authorize Grow-Lean to share your name and email with the certifying body, which, depending on the session, is typically the Scrum Alliance, Scaled Agile or IC Agile.
- Grow-Lean recommends that you use your personal email address instead of your work email when registering for training.
- This ensures that you will always have access to your account and certifications while also protecting the privacy of your organization.
Communications via Email and Text
Grow-Lean will communicate with you via email, and you may receive several similar emails, or even duplicates in an attempt to ensure that everyone receives the information they need. You may contact Grow-Lean via the Contact Us Page if this becomes a problem.
Grow-Lean will communicate with you via text messaging, in an attempt to ensure that everyone receives the information they need. You may contact Grow-Lean via the Contact Us Page if this becomes a problem.
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy Summary
This policy discloses the privacy practices for www.grow-lean.com clarifying the following:
- What personally identifiable information is collected.
- How personally identifiable information is used.
- With whom may the personally identifiable information be shared.
- What choices are available to you regarding the use of your personally identifiable information.
- Procedures used to protect the misuse of your personally identifiable information.
- How you can correct inaccuracies in your personally identifiable information.
Information Collection, Use, and Sharing
Grow-Lean owns the information collected on this site. We collect information that you provide when you register for a class, create an account, or by other direct contact from you. We do not sell this information. Your information is made available to other organizations that provide services such as payment processing, certification and communication.
From a financial perspective, Grow-Lean stores your name, the last four digits and the type of credit card used. Grow-Lean does not store your credit card data or other financial information in their systems.
If you take a session with Grow-Lean that results in certification, your information (name, email address, course taken, and course date) will also be shared with the certifying body, such as the Scrum Alliance or Scaled Agile.
Grow-Lean may contact you in the future to:
- help you register for class,
- help you create an account,
- help you set or reset your password,
- help you attend a class,
- to inform you about specials, new products or services.
Text Messaging
Grow-Lean provides you with the choice to utilize text messaging (SMS) for the purpose of verifying your account, and other account-related purposes. It is important to note that automated text messaging is not used for any promotional activities.
Contact Us to Opt-Out
You may opt out of receiving marketing email communications from Grow-Lean by using the link at the bottom of an email you received. If you are registered for a class, Grow-Lean will continue to send you information about that class.
You may contact Grow-Lean if you would like to be removed from their marketing list by entering your information in the contact us form.
Modifying Your Personal Information at Grow-Lean
You may contact Grow-Lean at any time in respect to your stored personal information.
- See what data Grow-Lean has about you, if any.
- Change/correct any data Grow-Lean has about you.
- Have Grow-Lean delete any data they have about you.
- Express any concern you have about Grow-Lean's use of your data.
Security
Grow-Lean takes precautions to protect your information. When you submit sensitive information via the website, your information is protected both online and offline.
For processing of credit card payments, Grow-Lean uses Stripe, Splitit and BlueSnap. Credit card data you enter during your checkout will be stored with one or more of the payment providers (scroll down for links to their privacy policies).
Updates
Updates to Grow-Lean's privacy policy will be posted on this page.
Adherence to Policy
Contact Grow-Lean immediately if you feel that they are not abiding by this privacy policy. Grow-Lean can be reached via telephone at +1.609.975.9294 or via email at Support@Grow-Lean.Com.
Cookies
Grow-Lean uses "cookies" on this site. A cookie is a piece of data stored on a site visitor's local drive to help Grow-Lean improve your access to their website, to identify repeat visitors, and to process registration. Cookies can also enable Grow-Lean to track the interests of their users to enhance the experience on their website.
Supporting Sites and Services
This website contains links and relies on sites and services from other organizations. The privacy practices of these organizations are not under Grow-Lean's control.
Be further aware that the organizations are based in various locations worldwide, including the United States. The European Commission has not determined that the United States and other areas of the world where these organizations operate, ensure an adequate level of protection for personal data.
Your information is shared with these organizations on an as-needed basis.
A list of organizations with which your data may be shared is listed next.
- Certification Bodies
- Payment Processing
- Communications
Intellectual Property Policy
Intellectual Property Policy Summary
- All course materials, including but not limited to lectures, interactive boards, practice exams, presentations, handouts, and assessments, are the intellectual property of Grow-Lean and are protected by copyright law.
- You may not record, photograph, livestream, distribute copies of, alter, or otherwise capture or reproduce the training, the training material, or images of other attendees, for any reason.
- You are granted a non-exclusive license to use course materials for your own personal learning and may not reproduce or distribute them in any form without the express written consent of Grow-Lean.
- Any unauthorized use or distribution of course materials will be considered a violation of copyright law and may result in legal action.
- If you wish to use course materials for any purpose other than personal learning, you must obtain written permission from Grow-Lean.
- Grow-Lean reserves the right to modify this policy at any time.
Discounts
Options for your circumstances
Request your discount on the session (a class on date/time with a trainer) you want. If more than one discount applies explain in your comments.
You can pay in up to 12 installments by choosing Splitit at checkout.
For Grow-Lean Alumni, log in or use your account email when registering, and receive an automatic discount. If you also qualify for another discount, request it, and, if your email matches, we know you are an alumni.
If you have a Visa or Mastercard credit card you can pay in up to 12 monthly installments. There are no fees or interest if you pay on time! Your available credit must be enough to cover the full cost and there is a hold on your credit card for the amount that you have not paid.
For example, if your final fee is $1,000 and you chose 10 installments:
- You would pay $100 today and have a $900 hold placed on your credit card.
- The following month your credit card would be charged another $100 and the hold would be reduced to $800.
- Each month you pay $100 and each month the hold is reduced by $100.
If you are not familiar with the term "hold" this is similar to what hotels do when you check in, to cover extra expenses you may incur including the mini bar.
The benefit to you is that you do not pay any interest or fees if all payments are on time.
After entering your request you may email us at Grow-Lean-Training@Grow-Lean.Com or call us +1.609.975.9294 for questions.
Able to register now?
Combines With: Alumni, Group, Hardship, Out of Pocket, Student, Veterans
If you qualify for another discount, like out of pocket, request it to get combined savings. If not, just register.
Won't be reimbursed?
Combines With: Alumni, Early Bird
Request an out of pocket (self-pay) discount. If you're a Grow-Lean Alumni, mention that in your description.
Multiple participants?
Combines With: Early Bird
The larger the group the larger the discount. If you want a private session, tell us in the comments. You will be able to register the attendees or they will be able to register themselves.
Grow-Lean Alumni?
Combines With: Early Bird, Hardship, Out of Pocket, Student, Veterans
Get 5% off for each public session you took with us (with a cost of $495 or more), up to 25% off, for Grow-Lean delivered sessions. Automatically combines with Early Bird just register.
Suffering a hardship?
Combines With: Early Bird, Alumni
Provide an unemployment notice or separation agreement. If you're a Grow-Lean Alumni, mention that in your description.
Student or educator?
Combines With: Early Bird, Alumni
Use your .edu email address to take advantage of a student / educator discount.
Active military or veteran?
Combines With: Early Bird, Alumni
Request a veteran discount and specify if you are paying on your own.
Preparation for Session
Maximize learning by preparing your technology for the session
We use common tools for our virtual sessions. Please read on to confirm what you need for the Certified ScrumMaster session.
- Internet connected Computer / Tablet: Many participants use a single device for the session, others use two devices, perhaps their work laptop for the webcam and a separate device for sharing.
- Working Webcam: Virtually all laptops have integrated webcams. If you don't have that, you can set up your phone as a webcam.
- Working headset or speaker plus microphone: Your laptop microphone, laptop speaker, or earphones are options.
- Access to Zoom: If you haven't used Zoom, test it at: https://zoom.us/test. Click "Join", and follow the prompts. If you have problems, check the Zoom article at: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115002262083-Joining-a-Zoom-test-meeting
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A location from which to participate: .
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Ideally this location will:
- Have good lighting
- Be relatively quiet
- Ensure that you have minimal interruptions
- But, no worries if you don't have a perfect spot. It is expected that kids, dogs, cats, spouses, siblings, roommates, parents, or someone else makes some noise, or appears on camera.
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Ideally this location will:
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Practice with Miro: Miro is a virtual white board.
- If you are not experienced with Miro, please prepare using the information below.
- Because there are sometimes browser configurations that restrict use, please consider downloading the Miro client for your device at: https://miro.com/apps/.
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Here are videos to get you started with Miro:
- Board Basics: https://vimeo.com/330084954
- Collaboration: https://vimeo.com/338245997
- Navigation: https://vimeo.com/318988801
- After the class we provide you an electronic copy of the completed board which captures your classroom experience.
- Getting into the Session: The Zoom information will be provided to you prior to the session.
Don Patti
CST | SAFe Program Consultant (SPC6) | Registered Scrum@Scale Trainer | BSP | PMI-PMP | LSSBB
Donald Patti is a seasoned agile trainer, coach, and consultant, renowned for his robust business acumen and software development expertise. He has successfully implemented agile methodologies across a diverse range of industries, teams, and organizations. As an entrepreneur, Don has founded and grown two businesses and provided c onsultation to numerous well-respected organizations. His deep understanding of lean principles, the foundation of agile, enables him to impart the intrinsic meaning of his teachings.
With a long-standing career in education, including many years as an adjunct professor and agile trainer delivering online training, Don's background in lean, agile, education, and online delivery equips him to convey information in an easily comprehensible manner.
Don devotes much of his time to coaching teams applying agile at scale and providing targeted coaching to clients. His vast real-world experience enriches his classroom instruction, where he delivers practical, reality-based agile training.
Don's service spans government, private sector, and non-profit clients. His extensive client list includes a dozen federal agencies, eleven non-profits, and over 90 private sector entities. Prominent clients include Amazon Web Services, HP, Daimler Benz, JPMorgan Chase, CheckFree, NASA, GSA, DHS, the National Cancer Institute and the Small Business Administration.
Don's strengths lie in his ability to tailor Agile and Lean techniques to the unique needs of each client and situation. His ability to explain this tailoring sets him apart.
Certifications and Education:
Don's significant real-world experience is complemented by a strong educational background and numerous certifications across various areas:
- Scrum Alliance: Certified Scrum Professional (CSP), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
- Scaled Agile Academy: SAFe Program Consultant (SPC5), SAFe Agilist (SA)
- RH Smith School of Business: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Information Systems and Entrepreneurship
- Balanced Scorecard Institute: Balanced Scorecard Professional (BSP)
- Morestream University: Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSBB)
- American Society for Quality: Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)
- EXIN: ITIL v3/IT Service Management
- Project Management Institute: Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Microsoft: Microsoft Certified Professional –Architecture and Requirements Gathering (MCP)
- IBM: Certified Solutions Expert/WebSphere
- IBM: Certified Solutions Advisor
Don Patti's Testimonials
Validated testimonials for Google and TrustPilot. Click to go to source website.
Abbirose Polityka
Don Patti is an excellent instructor who taught our group with exciting and interesting content! Amazing course.
Rachel Rose
Don’s class was incredibly captivating. All three days were informative, interactive, and even fun! The methodologies we discussed not only prepared us for the exam but allowed us to see many of the concepts we were learning played out in our team interactions. I’m a little sad it’s over!
Ky Sanders
This course was structured in the perfect way to introduce the fundamentals of being a Scrum Master and it provided material to ensure confidence in the certification earned. Grow-Lean's material is excellent and the instructor (Don Patti) executed the delivery to perfection. I enjoyed working with my peers and learning from them as well. An overall great experience.
Isabella Alfaro
This was a great experience. Don was super knowledgeable and delivered a comprehensive lecture with engaging team activities. And the course provided great review and practice material to pass the test.
Jerica Anderson
This course was very informative & interactive. I’ve put off taking this course for a couple years & glad I finally took it. It was well worth it. Don Patti was an exceptional instructor. I appreciate the patience & helpfulness from Don. I definitely will refer this course & Don to others.
William Shim
Fun and interactive class room. Don P did a great job. Learned a lot about agile and scrum.
Kyle Burns
Amazing introduction to scrum and agile frameworks. As a part of a start-up, we needed solutions that could scale and provide the same agility we needed to innovate. DP at Grow lean kept the class engaged, wasn't afraid to provide feedback and correction in a humorous and meaningful way, and inspired students to pursue and agile mindset.
Sílvia Baptista
The course was interactive and had a solid mix of instructor-led delivery, breakout sessions, and interactive quizzing that helped with the exam preparation. The trainer, Donald Patti, was kind, funny, informative, and attentive, and with the learning from this course, I easily passed my exam. Thank you!
Marcy Kravit
I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for Donald Patti and his expertise in teaching the Scrum class this past weekend. I passed the exam today and was very confident thanks to him! His “hands on approach,” detailed course materials and interactive learning style made it a lot of fun! Thanks again Donald! Marcy Kravit
Marcy Akselrad Kravit
I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for Donald Patti and his expertise in teaching the Scrum class this past weekend. I passed the exam today and was very confident thanks to him! His “hands on approach,” detailed course materials and interactive learning style made it a lot of fun! Thanks again Donald! Marcy Kravit
Rina Murray
Don Patti was superb teacher. He did not waver in his energy for teaching SCRUM and Agile to the class. I took the CSM test today and passed with flying colors! It's worth the investment. I highly recommend.
Practice Quizzes
Pass the CSM exam with confidence
Embark on a learning journey with six comprehensive 50-question practice tests, designed to enhance your study experience.
Leverage these practice exams to sharpen your interview skills and excel in your professional environment.
Practice with tests more challenging than the actual exam.
Optimize your learning process with instant feedback and detailed explanations for each answer.
Exceptional Training
Grow-Lean is a trusted provider.
Our trainers have a minimum of 15 years agile experience each.
Everything you need is included.
Guarantees
Check the range of guarantees we offer
Exam support guarantee
By participating in our session, you gain eligibility for the certification exam . Once you successfully pass the exam, you'll be recognized as a Certified ScrumMaster.
As part of our Exam Pass Guarantee Program, we provide ongoing assistance until you pass , including free exam retakes, free practice exams (comprising 300 questions), and one-on-one support. The only caveat is that you use the practice exams.
Love it or learn it again for free guarantee™
If you were not satisfied with the class, get a free retake, including a session with a different Grow-Lean Trainer.
You can also take advantage of one-on-one sessions if you are struggling with class concepts or need help preparing for the exam.
Reality Guarantee
Avoid
Dangerous Trainers
Theory without Experience
Many trainers have limited amounts of actual experience. They deliver vague content lacking depth. Answers may seem satisfying during the session but you will find little practical application in the workplace.
Choose
Grow-Lean
Understanding with Experience
Your Grow-Lean trainer comprehends the theory and has applied it in various situations, understanding applicability based on context. As a result, you are prepared to interview and/or execute with excellence.
Avoid
Dangerous Trainers
Experience without Understanding
Some trainers emphasize practical experience without grasping the underlying theory as they haven't invested the effort to understand the conceptual foundations. As a result you don't gain the context to help you apply the right approach given your situation.
Quality Guarantee
Choose Grow-Lean
100% live session, small class size (have your voice heard), numerous exercises, delivered by an experienced trainer, real testimonials, with no surprise fees or costs.
Avoid Low Quality Training
Numerous videos, large class size (be jammed in with 50 others), trainer doing lots of talking, inexperienced trainer, fake testimonials, with extra costs and surprise fees.
Everything Included
All-inclusive resources to become a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) with no hidden fees.
Exam Details
What You Need to Know
- Take from home: Take the exam from your house.
- Exam is free: No extra fee to take the exam.
- Available immediately: You can take minutes after the session.
- You will pass: 99% of Grow-Lean students pass.
- We will help: If you don't pass we assist you.
- Free retake: One free exam retake within 90 days is included.
- Number of questions: 50
- Exam name: Certified ScrumMaster Exam
- Exam format: Multiple choice
- Exam delivery: Web-based, open book, no outside assistance
- Exam access: We register you immediately after class, you get an email with a link
- Exam duration: 60 minutes maximum
- Number of questions: 50
- Passing score: 37 out of 50 for English Version
- Exam period: You have 90 days to complete the exam
- Language: English, and multiple other languages
- Exam cost: Your first attempt, and first retake is included as part of your course registration fee if the exam is taken within 90 days of course. 90 days you pay a $25 fee.
- Retake policy: Second attempt on exam (first retake) can be done immediately after first attempt.
Who Should Attend
The CSM is often the launching point on an agile journey irrespective of role
The CSM is the defacto training to checkpoint or start an agile journey allowing you to learn practical skills to enhance agility. Although it is titled "ScrumMaster" it is applicable irrespective of role or planned role. As such, attendees come from a wide variety of backgrounds:
- Scrum Masters and Aspiring Scrum Masters: If you're currently serving as a Scrum Master or aspire to become one, the CSM course is a great fit. You'll learn how to guide teams, facilitate conversations, manage impediments, and coach team members.
- Professionals from Various Industries: Scrum principles extend beyond software development. Marketing, manufacturing, data science, HR, and other fields benefit from applying Scrum practices.
- College Students: If you are in college and want to increase your job prospects upon graduating the CSM may be right for you.
- Anyone Interested in Agility and an Agile Mindset: The CSM course emphasizes an agile mindset. Learn how to lead self-organizing teams, remove impediments, facilitate growth and apply the Scrum framework effectively.
After completing the Grow-Lean CSM, you'll be prepared to pass the CSM exam and continue your journey. If you want to perform better at work or expand your career opportunities the Grow-Lean CSM course is an excellent choice!
By taking the session you earn the right to take the certification exam. Once you pass the exam you are a Certified ScrumMaster.
The certification will help differentiate you , but more importantly the learning will allow you to interview with more confidence and apply core agile product development techniques in the work place. The session, plus actual work experience, will allow you to pursue the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) and Certified Scrum Professional ScrumMaster (CSP-SM) certifications.
Will this Training Benefit You?
You have other options and not everyone will benefit.
Appropriate use of agile requires a mindset and approach which may be different from what you are used to. Read the points below to see if the session is right for you.
If You are a Continual Learner
Our Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) course is designed for those who are ready to embark on a continuous learning journey in the field of Information Technology (IT) and other knowledge disciplines. Securing a high-paying IT position requires dedication and effort beyond the classroom. Our course provides a solid foundation from which to grow, not a final destination so you will need continued hard work outside the classroom.
If You Think Critically
Agility is about adapting to the context, and the context can often change, thus requiring the approach to change as well. If you thrive in environments where flexibility and critical thinking are valued over following rigid, detailed instructions, our session will be a good fit for you.
If You Embrace Nuance
The principles of agile are universal, yet their application can vary across different industries. This session is ideal for those who can embrace nuance and apply agile thinking to their unique situations.
If You Appreciate Constructive Feedback
We believe in fostering a learning environment where constructive feedback is a cornerstone. Our trainers are committed to guiding you towards the correct answers, helping you learn and grow. This requires that you be open to accepting feedback which may not match your current mental models.
In Summary
If you are the type of person who is always learning, and you are willing to apply critical thinking, work through ambiguity, look at nuance, and question your own mental models, our CSM will likely be of benefit to you . If not, you may want to consider a different certification or training provider.
Job Prospects for Scrum Masters
Scrum Master jobs are growing and the salaries are generous
Our sessions provide you both a conceptual understanding as well as practical take-aways. With the class and six practice exams you will be in good shape to pass the exam and obtain knowledge to present well in job interviews. The probability of receiving a job offer depends on your background and willingness to continue to work hard outside of the class room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Things to know
The Scrum Master and the CSM Certification
The Scrum Master helps the Developers and Product Owner grow as individuals and as a team to improve the quality of outcomes for each person, the Scrum Team and the organization.The Scrum Master also works organizationally to helps individuals and the organization improve.
The descriptions below give examples of how the Scrum Master helps others.
Assisting the Developers and the Product Owner
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Ensure they understand and apply self-management. As one example related to the Developers and the Product Owner,
the Developers should significant levels autonomy and authority at Sprint Planning.
- The Developers discuss, with the Product Owner, the ideal set of items to bring into the Sprint.
- The Developers make the final decision on what items will be brought into the Sprint.
- The Developers plan the Sprint, including how the work will be done and by whom.
- This is in contrast to a Product Owner, or Project Manager, or Tech Lead, telling the Developers what to do.
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Help the Developers and Product Owner identify and address impediments.
- You may often hear that the Scrum Master removes impediments. In some cases this is feasible. Perhaps for example the Scrum Master can follow up with another team in respect to a dependency, to expedite work by that other team to address a dependency.
- In other cases the Scrum Master ensures that we do what is feasible to maximize the quality of delivery in the face of impediments when it is not possible to simply solve the impediment.
- In all instances this contrasts to accepting the circumstances around us letting it impede progress.
Assisting Developers
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Help them understand, and ensure they apply, self-management.
- They figure out what to work on and how to work on it, while aligning with the Sprint Goal.
- This contrasts to waiting to be told what to do.
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Help Developers work across role and function.
- For example, perhaps an analyst can help test the product, or a tester can do analysis.
- There are significant benefits to this including individual growth, as Developers learn new things, their is increased motivation from learning new things, and their is a reduction of risk as we have more than one person capable of doing each type of work.
- Despite the benefits, Developers are often hesitant to work outside their core competency so the Scrum Master creates a safe space for role sharing, often by coaching collaboration patterns where two or more Developers work together.
- The alternative is where each Developer focuses on only one area of expertise which limits career growth, creates risks (perhaps they are out), while also creating bottlenecks (work can't move because team members are waiting on the one expert.
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Help them execute the Scrum Events, to maximize the application of empirical, evidence based, approaches, instead of just executing
the mechanics of Scrum. For example a well executed Daily Scrum:
- Is run by the Developers, for the Developers.
- Results in the the Developers self-managing to create a better plan for the next 24 hours.
- This is in contrast to a poorly executed Daily Scrum that focuses on status.
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Helps them improve their technical processes. Depending on the type of product being developed this could include:
- Test First: write a test before creating the product, create the product, use the test to prove it works.
- Pairing: two Developers working on the same things at the same time for a continued period of time (a day, a week, etc.).
- Swarming: multiple Developers working on the same thing at the same time until completion.
- Refactoring: cleaning up existing code.
Assisting the Product Owner
- Help them understand and apply empirical product development.
- Help them convey a clear and concise vision.
- Help them create a long term roadmap.
- Help them organize and sequence the Product Backlog.
- Help them plan and forecast.
- Help them apply evidence based, empirical, product development methods.
Assisting the Organization
- Ensure all involved understand what an evidence based, empirical approach, entails.
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Addressing structural issues that negatively impact the application of evidence based, empirical approaches and Scrum. Examples include:
- Budget cycle: move from a yearly budget cycle to continuous flow budgeting.
- Structure: break down function silos and move to feature teams.
- Measurement: move to outcome based measurements.
- Create and execute a long-term road maps for achieving ever greater levels of agility.
- Removing individual blockers as they arise.
The agile community originated in software development but has expanded over the years. Many attendees in a CSM are looking for career change, so we attendees include teachers, sales people, health care professionals, administrators, and others, looking to move into information technology (IT).
We also get a fair amount of attendees, like those in marketing and product development looking to use agile to enhance their current roles.
About the Grow-Lean Certified Scrum Master Class
Unlike many other companies, our sessions are 100% live with the only exception being short videos that consume less than five minutes of class time.
Be aware that many other trainers use hours of pre-recorded content!
All of our CSM Sessions use Zoom. Depending on the trainer, additional technologies like Mural, Miro and Google Drive are used.
- You can find out the specific technologies used for a session by clicking "Details" then clicking the "Prep" tab.
- All of the technologies used in the session are included in your registration fees.
- If you need assistance, we can help you prior to the session.
The list below specifies what you need. If you need assistance preparing, please contact us.
- Internet connected Computer / Tablet: Many participants use a single device for the session, others use two devices, perhaps their work laptop for the webcam and a separate device for sharing.
- Working Webcam: Virtually all laptops have integrated webcams. If you don't have that, you can set up your phone as a webcam.
- Working headset or speaker plus microphone: Your laptop microphone, laptop speaker, or earphones are options.
- Access to Zoom: If you haven't used Zoom, test it at: https://zoom.us/test. Click "Join", and follow the prompts. If you have problems, check the Zoom article at: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115002262083-Joining-a-Zoom-test-meeting
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A location from which to participate: .
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Ideally this location will:
- Have good lighting
- Be relatively quiet
- Ensure that you have minimal interruptions
- But, no worries if you don't have a perfect spot. It is expected that kids, dogs, cats, spouses, siblings, roommates, parents, or someone else makes some noise, or appears on camera.
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Ideally this location will:
You will get material prior to, at, and after your Certified ScrumMaster (CSM).
- Prior to the course you will receive links for videos, pre-reads and practice exams.
- If the trainer uses a PDF workbook you will receive a link prior to the class so you can print the PDF.
- All of our trainers use interactive boards during the class.
Choosing Grow-Lean
Grow-Lean is a safe and wise choice to help you on your CSM journey:
- We are a ScrumAlliance approved Registered Education Provider (REP).
- Our Certified Scrum Trainers (CSTs) are some of the longest-tenured in the world.
- All of our trainers have a minimum of 15 years experience with agile.
- We do not use death by PowerPoint, or canned videos, instead, our sessions are high quality, real, interactive workshops.
- Our training material and approaches are vetted by experts.
- We have caring customer support before and after training.
- We can help you complete your journey with our advanced courses like the Advanced CSM and Certified Scrum Professional - ScrumMaster.
Grow-Lean's has four trainers delivering the CSM. Arlen Bankston, Chris Doss, and David Bulkin all have 20+ years of agile experience, with each of them starting the 1999 to 2001 time period (Agile Manifesto for Software Development was signed in 2001). Don Patti started with agile in 2006, which is 15+ years of experience.
All have 15 or more years experience delivering training, and Arlen and Chris were two of the first to deliver the CSM. Between them, our four CSM trainers have certified over 20,000 Scrum Masters with the Scrum Alliance.
Yes, Grow-Lean as an organization, and Grow-Lean Trainers, are approved by the Scrum Alliance.
- Grow-Lean is an approved Path to Certified Scrum Professional (CSP) Educator meaning we can, and do, provide the Advanced CSM (A-CSM) and the Certified Scrum Professional = Scrum Master (CSP-SM).
- Grow-Lean is an approved Registered Education Provider (REP) for the Scrum Alliance meaning we can provide additional professional development opportunities for you to expand beyond the certified sessions normally offered.
- All of the Grow-Lean Trainers who deliver the CSM have been approved by the Scrum Alliance.
Enrolling in the Grow-Lean Certified Scrum Master Class
Grow-Lean offers buy-now-pay-later via Splitit.
- Choose Splitit during the checkout process.
- You choose the term, from one to twelve months.
- You pay no additional fees or interest .
- You can pay off early.
- A hold, equal to the full amount owed, is applied to your credit card.
Grow-Lean offers an industry leading array of discounts to meet your specific situation. All discounts are subject to availability based on location, trainer(s), attendance, and other factors.
- Early Bird: register in advance and save.
- Out of Pocket: when you won't be reimbursed.
- Group: three or more.
- Alumni: combines with everything, 5% off for each class over $495 you take with us.
- Hardship: for those suffering an economic hardship.
- Student: for full time students.
- Military/Vet: for those serving their country.
Per the chart below, discounts can be combined.
Note: There are a limited number of discounted seats available for each Grow-Lean session. Once all discounted seats are claimed, they're gone. Request and redeem your discount now!
We try to be flexible so you can reschedule at any time, with the maximum financial impact being a $125 transfer fee if you reschedule late.
Yes, please click here to go to our contact us page. Choose "Call me" from the dropdown and in the description provide a description of when and how to contact you, along with a quick description of what you want to discuss.
Yes, please click here to go to our contact us page. Choose "Call me" from the dropdown and in the description provide a description of when and how to contact you, along with a quick description of what you want to discuss.
Exam FAQ
Basic CSM exam facts
- The exam is taken via an internet connected device.
- You have 90 days from class start to take the exam.
- The exam is 50 multiple choice questions.
- You must get 37 questions correct.
- You have one hour to take the exam.
- If you fail the exam you get a free retake.
If you take the CSM with Grow-Lean you will get six free practice exams. Passing these exams virtually ensures you pass the real exam the, the first time, with a high score.
If you need personal coaching, reach out to us
The exam is administered online.
- You do not need to go to a test center.
- You can take it at home on your Internet connected device.
Yes. You should have the following open when taking exam:
- The Scrum Guide.
- The Agile Manifesto.
No, the exam is not proctored as it is intended to help you learn not to make you fail.
- You can take it at home on your Internet connected device.
- You do not need to have your camera on.
There are 50 test questions in the exam and you have one hour to finish.
- When taking the exam you should spend no more than 60 seconds on any question.
- Write down the small number of questions you think need to be reviewed.
- Never leave an answer blank.
- After answering question 50, go back to question one, do a quick review of the whole exam, and focus on the small number of question that you wrote down.
The short answer is yes, you should pass the exam on the first try if you do a short block of study.
- We provide six free, high quality, practice exams and additional study material.
- Passing the practice exams virtually ensures you pass the real exam the, the first time, with a high score.
- We generally recommend taking the practice exams until you score 90% or better.
- For some individuals this is less than an hour of practice time, but it depends on the person. You have unlimited tries on the practice exams so you will do what you need to pass.
- If you need one on one assistance, reach out to us.
Small Class Size
Want to be jammed into a 50 person class?
Probably not.
Get the individual attention you deserve with Grow-Lean.
Certified Scrum Master Journey
Steps to Improve Your Career with a Certified ScrumMaster Certification
- Enroll in a Grow-Lean course and get quality you can trust.
- Attend your Grow-Lean course.
- Use one or more of our six practice exams to prepare. If you need help, reach out to us for free tutoring.
- You get a link for the actual exam after the class.
- Pass the exam on the first try, if not we got you covered for your next two tries (within 90 days).
- Accept your license with Scrum Alliance.
- You have a two year Scrum Alliance membership
- Benefit from your CSM to experience personal and career growth.
What You Learn
Coverage in the Certified ScrumMaster
The basics of agile, Scrum and practices from other frameworks, so you and your team can apply an empirical, evidence based, product development approach.
You gain both the agile philosophy as well as the practical application; meaning, you can immediately apply new skills within the constraints of your workplace while moving towards increasing levels of agility over time.
Applying Scrum:
- Roles: Help your group of Developers and the PO excel as a team.
- Events: Facilitate (not manage) Refinement, Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, and Sprint Retrospective events.
- Artifacts: Ensure Product and Sprint Backlogs are lightweight and actionable to maximize value of the increment.
A representative agenda is shown.
No Nasty Surprises
Everything you need is included, there are no extra fees to register or take exam!
Choose your training company wisely. With Grow-Lean everything is covered including the exam certification fees, six full practice exams one free exam retake, and free class retake (within 120 days). There are no surprise costs when you register or accept your license. For the free exam retake, you won't likely need it as you will pass on the first time with a high score.
You receive additional discounts off of your next session, including the Advanced ScrumMaster (A-CSM).
Pre-Class Reading and Videos
Maximize your learning with preparation
- Start with a short read, the Agile Manifesto and the principles behind it.
- Read the Scrum Guide. It is 13 light pages.
- Have some more time, watch the videos on Scrum.
- Even more time, check the Certified ScrumMaster specific material.
Why?
Value
Fair price, exceptional training, best value.
Inclusive
Everything you need to be certified is included. No hidden fees!
Retake
Take again for free*.
*Within 120 days as long as Grow-Lean delivers the session.
Deep
Concepts are reviewed in a meaningful way by an expert with actual experience.
Personal
Small class size so that your voice is heard.
Engaging
Interactive class experience.
Unique
Custom created training material and approach.
Supported
Training team support seven days a week.
Immersive Classroom Experience
A mix of technologies and interactive approaches
We use Zoom as the core virtual technology and we use Miro as virtual space where we run exercises, and play educational games, resulting in an interactive session.
