What action does a Scrum Master take to help remove obstacles for the Development Team?

The action that a Scrum Master should take to help remove obstacles for the Development Team is to facilitate communication and collaborate with the team. This approach is essential because the Scrum Master acts as a servant-leader who empowers the team, rather than controlling their work or imposing limitations. By facilitating communication, the Scrum Master ensures that the team members can discuss challenges openly, share insights, and propose solutions collaboratively. This collaborative environment helps identify obstacles more quickly and creates a space where the team can work together to find resolutions.

Further, effective facilitation involves engaging with stakeholders and other relevant parties to address any external issues that may be affecting the team’s progress. This could mean working with management to secure necessary resources or advocating for the team’s needs within the organization. Such actions not only remove obstacles but also build trust and maintain a supportive environment within the team.

In contrast, taking control of the Development Team's work compromises the autonomy and self-management that are fundamental to Scrum. Implementing strict policies would likely stifle creativity and adaptability, which are vital in a dynamic working environment. Lastly, while encouraging team members to work independently fosters accountability, it should not be confused with isolating them; collaboration remains key in overcoming challenges together.