Who determines when it is appropriate to update the Sprint Backlog during a Sprint?

The Development Team is responsible for determining when to update the Sprint Backlog during a Sprint. This is because the Sprint Backlog is an artifact that represents the work the Development Team has committed to complete during the Sprint. It is a living document that can be adjusted as new insights and developments occur throughout the Sprint.

The Development Team has the authority to make changes to the Sprint Backlog in response to new information, obstacles encountered, or a shift in focus regarding how best to achieve the Sprint Goal. They are the ones performing the work, so they are uniquely positioned to make decisions based on their progress and the challenges they face.

Updating the Sprint Backlog can occur through the team’s own assessments during the Daily Scrum or in response to emerging requirements or understanding how best to achieve the goal. Therefore, the choice of the Development Team reflecting their ownership and accountability aligns with the principles of Scrum, emphasizing self-organization and cross-functionality.