HKSM

A short, time-boxed effort in a project when the team researches, experiments, or builds a quick prototype to test feasibility and guide the next steps.

Key Points

• Fixed-duration investigation aimed at answering a specific question or reducing uncertainty.
• Focuses on learning and feasibility; not intended to deliver production-ready functionality.
• Typical outputs include findings, recommendations, throwaway prototypes, and improved estimates.
• Planned as a backlog item with clear success criteria for what decision or insight is needed.

Example

A Scrum team is unsure about integrating a new payment gateway. They schedule a 2-day spike to prototype the API calls, assess security requirements, and measure response times. The result is a brief report, sample code, and a go/no-go recommendation for using the gateway.

PMP Example Question

During sprint planning, the team flags high uncertainty about a third-party API needed for the next feature. What is the best action?

1. Add extra buffer and proceed with development as planned.
2. Start building the full feature and learn during implementation.
3. Create a time-boxed spike to research and prototype the integration.
4. Escalate the risk immediately to the steering committee.

Correct Answer: C — Create a time-boxed spike to research and prototype the integration

Explanation: A spike systematically reduces uncertainty and informs decisions before committing to full implementation.