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Foundations

Adaptation

Official Pillar

Adaptation means adjusting work or plans based on what is learned through inspection.

Plain English explanation

Adaptation is the ability to change direction when something is not working or when new information is discovered.

What it means

When inspection reveals something important, the team must adjust as soon as possible to reduce further deviation.

Why it matters

Without adaptation, teams may continue in the wrong direction even when problems are visible.

How it works

Adaptation happens continuously. Developers adjust daily, Product Backlog changes after reviews, and teams improve after retrospectives.

Key idea

Inspection without adaptation has no value.

Key points

  • Triggered by inspection
  • Reduces risk early
  • Happens continuously
  • Drives improvement

Source

Based on Scrum Guide 2020.

Visit official Scrum Guide