The requirements to become a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) have changed effective October 1, 2009.  Previous to this, to become a Certified ScrumMaster you needed to attend and actively participate in the two-day CSM Class taught by a Certified Scrum Trainer.  Now, in addition to taking the class, you must also take a one-hour self-proctored on-line exam.  Those who became Certified ScrumMasters before this change will need to take the exam within two years of obtaining their original Certification in order to maintain their status with the Scrum Alliance.   Our Certified Scrum Master instructor Peter Borsella helps keep us up to speed with what’s going on with the Scrum Alliance.  After completing the ASPE Certified ScrumMaster Workshop, all participants will have the information required to take the online exam and become certified.  This course is found at http://www.aspe-sdlc.com/courses/4400/.

This change is part of the Scrum Alliance’s effort to bring more legitimacy to the title “CSM.”  While the title was never intended to mean that someone was qualified, it has fallen under criticism because of the word “Certified,” which was more intended to indicate that the participant heard material certified by the Scrum Alliance and from a trainer who has also been certified by the Scrum Alliance.

Much time and energy has been put into creating the new exam, including evaluations of this test during Scrum Gathering events, but there’s nothing like testing it in the field.  The Scrum Alliance has decided to make the exam “pass only” for a period of time to help understand if the exam is indeed meeting expectations on providing relevant, coherent, and appropriate questions.  This introductory period will also help ensure that applicants are not inappropriately penalized (failed) due to potential problems with the exam.  Feedback from Peter Borsella tells us he thinks this is a good first step, and so far class participants have been very cooperative and understanding in taking this as a “pass only” experience.