Scrum is a very powerful and popular Agile framework used particularly in software development and various iterative projects. When you are transitioning onto Scrum you have a brand-new set of concepts and roles that can be confusing and intimidating in the beginning. Two of the main roles like these are that of Product Owner (CSPO) and Scrum Master (CSM). 

If you are interested in getting Scrum certified, you may be aware that there are many different Scrum certifications on the market to choose from. 

However, the ones you want to start with are CSPO and CSM certifications as they are designed to ease your way into agile and scrum practices. Once obtained a second and later third level certifications will become available to complete your CSPO or CSM path. Let's quickly look into the CSPO and CSM certifications and consider the main differences between the two.

Understanding the Anatomy of All Scrum Teams

Scrum is famous for being a lean Agile framework that can be utilized to manage project types of incremental and iterative projects. Three main roles define a Scrum team, and these are:

  • Scrum Master

  • Product Owner

  • Development Team

What Does Each of These Do?

Development Team - The main bulk of your Scrum team is on the development team, a cross-functional and self-organizing team that works together to deliver the products for the end-user or client. 

Scrum Master - The Scrum Master has the responsibility that every team member properly follows the practices, rules, and theories of Scrum. They make sure the team has everything it needs to reach its goals and complete the project, such as organizing meetings and removing obstacles and roadblocks to progress, etc. 

Product Owner - The product owner is the person involved in a Scrum team and project for all the work the team needs to complete. They are there to motivate and encourage the Scrum team to reach the goal and fulfill the vision.

Now that we have covered the basics, let's look a little closer at CSPO and CSM certification.

CSM Certification and CSPO Certification - How Do they compare?

Details of the Certifications

The acronym CSM stands for Certified Scrum Master and this certification covers the basics of the framework of Scrum and has been devised to provide individuals with a strong start in Scrum. 

While the acronym CSPO is Certified Scrum Product Owner and this certification is designed for people who are interested in the more business side of the projects they are involved in. It has been devised to give individuals a behind-the-scenes look at the product development of your company, but it also offers you the chance to test and hone your skills as a leader. 

Why Should You Choose CSPO or CSM?

As we've already noted, the interest and demand for certified individuals in both these roles have increased exponentially as Scum is becoming the go-to framework for many companies. 

It is fair to say that the role of Scrum Master is one of the most sought out. Companies looking to benefit from the principles and impact of Agile are hiring specialists in Scrum, especially CSMs. 

As important as the role of Scrum Master is, from the business side of things, a crucial member of any team is a Product Owner. This is a very challenging position to hold and one that requires the individual to make the most important business decisions regarding the product the Scrum team is working on. 

How can you Get Certified?

We have now reached the point in the article where we start to look at the certifications in a bit more detail. First off, how do you get certified for these roles? 

For CSM Certification

To become a Certified Scrum Master, you need to follow the steps below:

  • Step One - Register with Scrum Alliance, who is an official dealer of this certification course

  • Step Two - Attend a two-day, in-person scrum course that is taken and led by a Certified Scrum Trainer

  • Step Three - Once you have completed the course above, you need to then take and pass the Certified Scrum Master Test.

  • Step Four - Once you have passed the test, you need to accept the License Agreement related to CSM certification and need to complete your membership profile with Scrum Alliance.

  • Step Five - You will then receive your internally-valid and lifetime Accredited Certification Document.

Don't worry if you fail the test the first time you take it, because you will be able to retake twice for no extra charge during the 60 days after the first time you failed. 

For CSPO Certification

To qualify as a Certified Scrum Product, you need to follow the steps outlined below:

  • Step One - Attend the special 2-day course that is led by a CST or Certified Scrum Trainer

  • Step Two - Read the Scrum Guide and the Agile Manifesto and make sure you work through all the CSPO learning objectives.

  • Step Three - Once you have completed your course, you next need to accept the License Agreement related to CSPO certification

  • Step Four - Fill in your membership profile through Scrum Alliance

  • Step Five - The difference between this and CSM is there is no associated test you need to sit. Scrum Alliance will simply email you with the certificate attached.

  • Step Six - Remember to renew your certificate every couple of years and maintain it by earning special Scrum Education Units.

So, Which is the Best?

Side by side, there are advantages and merits to both certification courses. However, whatever is considered the best, though, is what is going to suit you and your needs. It would be most ideal for you to pursue the Scrum certification that is most relevant to the role you are interested in having. 

CSM certification is the foundational certification that works as the first step to a career in agile and scrum and is suitable for potential scrum masters, business analysts, testers, and developers. Whereas the CSPO is a more specialist certification that is better suited to higher management, product managers, product owners, and business analysts who are interested in being more involved in the "business side" of projects.