HKSM
timebox
A brief, predetermined time limit allocated to finish a specific set of work.
Key Points
- The duration is fixed; scope is adjusted to fit the timebox.
- Encourages focus, prioritization, and a predictable delivery cadence.
- Common uses include iterations/sprints, spikes, and timeboxed meetings.
- At the end, deliver what is done; unfinished work is re-planned without extending the timebox.
Example
A team uses a two-week timebox for a sprint. They select top-priority backlog items that fit the two weeks. When the two weeks end, they stop, review what is complete, and move any unfinished items back to the backlog for future planning.
PMP Example Question
As a one-week timebox ends, one user story remains partially complete. What should the project team do?
- Extend the timebox by one day to finish the story.
- Keep the timebox end date and return the unfinished work to the backlog for re-planning.
- Add temporary resources to complete the story before the timebox ends.
- Work overtime to meet the original scope within the same timebox.
Correct Answer: B — Keep the timebox fixed and re-plan unfinished work
Explanation: Timeboxes have fixed durations; scope is the variable. Unfinished work should be re-estimated and scheduled later, not extend the timebox.
