Scrum Product Backlogs
In this chapter I describe the important role that the product backlog plays on a Scrum development project. I begin by describing the different types of items that typically populate a product backlog. Next I discuss four characteristics of a good product backlog and how good backlog grooming helps ensure that those characteristics are achieved. I then describe why the product backlog is a key element in managing fast, flexible flow at both the release and sprint level. I end by discussing how we determine which and how many product backlogs we should have.
Overview
The product backlog is a prioritized list of desired product functionality. It provides a centralized and shared understanding of what to build and the order in which to build it. It is a highly visible artifact at the heart of the Scrum framework that is accessible to all project participants (see Figure 6.1).
![Figure 6.1](/content/images/chap6_9780137043293/elementLinks/06fig01.jpg)
Figure 6.1. The product backlog is at the heart of the Scrum framework.
As long as there is a product or system being built, enhanced, or supported, there is a product backlog.