HKSM
Scrum Guidance Body
The Scrum Guidance Body (SGB) is an optional organizational body made up of guidance documents and/or subject-matter experts that sets enterprise-level objectives and rules for quality, regulatory compliance, security, and other critical governance areas.
Key Points
- Optional construct at the organizational level; not a required Scrum Team role.
- May consist of documents, experts, or both, providing standards and guardrails.
- Focuses on quality, regulations, security, and other enterprise policies and controls.
- Guides and aligns teams without replacing the Product Owner or Scrum Master.
Example
A financial services company creates an SGB that publishes secure coding standards, data retention rules, and a minimum Definition of Done that includes regulatory checks. Scrum Teams consult these materials and, when needed, meet with SGB experts to clarify how to satisfy compliance during Sprint Planning and reviews.
PMP Example Question
Which activity best reflects the purpose of a Scrum Guidance Body (SGB) in an organization using Scrum?
- Approving each team's Sprint Backlog before the Sprint starts.
- Publishing enterprise security and compliance standards that all Scrum Teams must follow.
- Prioritizing features in the Product Backlog across all teams.
- Directing how Scrum Masters conduct the Daily Scrum.
Correct Answer: B — Publishing enterprise security and compliance standards
Explanation: The SGB provides organization-wide guidance such as quality, security, and regulatory standards; it does not manage Sprint Backlogs, set backlog priorities, or dictate team ceremonies.
