Over the course of several Sprints, the relationship between the Product Owner and the Developers has worsened. The Developers are upset with the Product Owner for the constantly changing requirements. The Product Owner is upset with the Developers for changing estimates. What should the Scrum Master do?

A. The Scrum Master’s responsibility is to ensure the scrum Team has a stable velocity. Any changes that impact the team’s velocity should go through the Scrum Master First.
B. Raise this issue during the Sprint Retrospective. Facilitate a discussion between the Product Owner and the Developers focusing on the topic of change. Have the Team discuss why the changes occur and seek to increase understanding of the underlying issues
C. Explain to the Developers that the Product Owner is accountable for flow of value and his/her decision should be respected in order to maximize value
D. Take no action. The Scrum Team is self-organizing and needs to resolve its own conflict all times

Correct Answer: B

The Scrum Master leads the team through healthy conflict and debate and supports the team in problem solving and conflict resolution. Conflicts are a natural occurrence and the Scrum Master coaches them on the value of resolving conflicts in a healthy way. Leaving conflicts unresolved can impact the Scrum values of openness and respect and lead to diminished trust. It is the responsibility of the Scrum Master to ensure impediments that hinder the team are addressed.