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PSF vs PSM

Last post 01:48 pm June 19, 2014 by Michael Owen
2 replies
07:26 am June 14, 2014

Hi all @ Scrum.org

I was taking a look at the course list and notice that a PSF course is available.
Looking at the details, the exam you take is the PSM 1 exam, which in its self is tricky even at SM level.
Does anyone know what the pass rate for anyone taking a PSF course and passing the PSM exam is?
PSM course is a two day course what it is aimed at the Scrum master.
PSF course is a two day foundation in scrum, more on the framework as a whole.
My thoughts are around getting people into scrum, the PSM exam could knock someones
confidence if they fail the PSM based around "getting to know scrum" and certified.


PSF
The Professional Scrum Foundations course is the perfect introduction,
reboot or refresher to Scrum. Students hit the ground running through instruction and team-based exercises.

PSF prerequisites
Have studied the Scrum Guide (required).
Have been closely involved or have a high interest with a project that builds or enhances
a software product or application.

Exam
PSM 1


VS

PSM
The Professional Scrum Master course is targeted to Scrum Masters and anyone
else responsible for the successful use and/or rollout of Scrum.

PSM prerequisites:
Have studied the Scrum Guide (required).
Passed the Scrum Open assessment.
Have a solid understanding of Scrum either through working on a Scrum Team,
or through taking part in a Professional Scrum Foundations or similar course.
Have been on or are closely involved in building or enhancing a software product or application.
Have read one of the Scrum books. See resources.

Exam
PSM 1


Whats the thoughts of the rest of the community and of any candidates who have taken the PSF route?


08:40 pm June 17, 2014

The pass rates for my courses for the PSM 1 are about the same for both courses. So, one way to think of this is that both courses cover a similar 50% or so of material relevant to PSM 1 exam, and each then has about 50% that is more relevant to the objectives of the course. So, for PSF, the other 50% is more Scrum Team focused, while the other 50% for PSM class is more SM role focused.

Also remember that the PSM course can help you prepare for PSM 2 exam as well.

It comes down to understanding what it is you're trying to accomplish with the training. IME, PSF is better for all roles (Scrum roles + stakeholders + managers) as a beginner course, while PSM is better for SM and Agile Coach roles as an intermediate level course.


01:48 pm June 19, 2014

Thanks Charles, its always good to get an insight on courses.
At a 50\50 balance then its applicable for both as you say, beginners and intermediates.


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