Atlassian Agile Project Management Professional Certification Practice Exam

Is it generally better for an agile team to consist of generalists or specialists?

1. Generalists

2. Specialists

3. Both are equally effective

4. Neither is suitable in agile environments

The correct answer is: Generalists

The emphasis on generalists in an agile team is rooted in the agile methodology's core principles, which promote flexibility, collaboration, and the ability to adapt to changing requirements. Generalists possess a broad range of skills that allow them to contribute to various aspects of the project, which is crucial in an environment where roles can be fluid, and team members often need to wear multiple hats. Having generalists fosters a collaborative atmosphere where team members can easily share knowledge, fill in gaps, and assist each other during different stages of development. This collaborative spirit enhances problem-solving capabilities and leads to quicker responses to changing priorities, a key feature of agile environments. Moreover, generalists can help maintain the team's momentum by enabling members to switch tasks and roles as needed, minimizing bottlenecks caused by dependency on specialists. This adaptability ensures that the team can respond to customer feedback, shifting user requirements, or unforeseen challenges more effectively. While specialists certainly bring depth in their respective areas, the dynamic nature of agile projects typically favors a workforce that can pivot quickly and support each other across various facets of the project rather than being tied down to narrowly defined roles. Thus, having a team comprised primarily of generalists aligns more closely with the agile paradigm, which values cross-functional collaboration and rapid