SAFE-SPC practice question 8 of 25

How does a team calculate its initial velocity during its first PI Planning meeting when teams don't have historic data?

Answer options

A: Assign 8 points per team member (not counting the Scrum Master and Product Owner) and subtract 1 point for each holiday or vacation day.

B: It is not recommended to calculate velocity until the team has completed its first PI.

C: Allow teams to establish their own velocity and then roll them up to calculate the velocity of the train.

D: Assign 10 points per team member (not counting the Scrum Master and Product Owner) and subtract 1 point for each holiday or vacation day. Correct answer

Correct Answer:

D. Assign 10 points per team member (not counting the Scrum Master and Product Owner) and subtract 1 point for each holiday or vacation day.

Explanation

SAFe’s guidance for new teams without historical velocity is to assign 8–12 points per team member (typically 10) except Scrum Master and Product Owner, subtracting points for planned absences. “For initial velocity, a simple guideline is to assume 8–12 points per team member (excluding Scrum Master and Product Owner), then subtract 1 point for each day of vacation or holiday.” (Source: SAFe 6.0 Framework: PI Planning Preparation)

Keep practicing

Take the free SAFE-SPC practice test

Ten exam-style questions with answers and explanations, plus the exam facts and study guides.

Start the free practice test