How to Write a Product Vision for a Scrum Project? Templates and Examples

The Product Vision is not part of the Scrum process, yet why is it so important? According to Schwaber, “The minimal plan required to initiate a Scrum project consists of a vision and a Product Backlog.” Thus, the vision is one of the two essential components needed to kickstart a Scrum project (Schwaber, 2004). Although not part of the Scrum framework itself, the Product Vision is a crucial element in product development.
Product Vision in Scrum Project
Product Vision in Scrum

What is a Vision Statement?

A vision statement defines where an organization aspires to be in the future and how it best serves stakeholders’ needs. Every project needs a vision to guide its direction. A vision serves as a compass for choosing current and future actions.
Example Vision Statement
Microsoft’s Vision
“ To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, anytime, anywhere, on any device.”
A vision statement applies to the organization and its members, unlike a customer mission statement. An effective vision statement should be:
  1. Clear and unambiguous.
  2. Easy to understand.
  3. Aligned with the organization’s culture and values.
  4. Realistic and pragmatic.
  5. Concise and easy to remember.

The Product Vision in Scrum

Scrum projects begin primarily with a vision for the product or system to be developed. The Scrum Product Vision is a brief description of the desired future state that the product can achieve through development and deployment. A well-crafted vision provides a clear path toward achieving the project’s goals and offers a shared understanding of the direction the team wants to move in. Furthermore, the Product Vision supports the Product Owner in prioritizing: what features to build first, in what order, and which ones not to build at all.
A good way to start crafting your vision is by using the vision statement template shown below (of course, this is just an example to get you started—you don’t have to force your vision into this format):
Product Vision Statement Template
Product Vision Statement Template
Example: Online Shopping Mall
Product Vision Example - Online Shopping Mall
Product Vision Example – Online Shopping Mall