In project management, language matters. The words we use shape our teams’ understanding and communication—especially when we’re managing complex projects under high pressure.
Scrum and PMI (Project Management Institute) both offer structured approaches to project execution. But when it comes to terminology, they couldn’t be more different.
Scrum: Stick to the Script
Scrum takes a strict stance on terminology. The Scrum Guide emphasizes that teams should “adopt and strictly use the Scrum terminology.” Roles like Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Development Team, as well as events like Sprint Planning and Daily Scrum, are defined very clearly.
Why the formality? Because shared language builds shared understanding. When a team is new to Scrum, using the correct terms speeds up onboarding, reduces ambiguity, and ensures alignment. It’s especially critical in multi-team environments or external collaborations where everyone needs to be on the same page.
PMI: Tailor to Fit
The PMBOK Guide from PMI takes a more flexible approach. It suggests tailoring terminology based on the needs of the organization and its stakeholders. PMI’s guidance is broad and industry-agnostic—it’s meant to be applied in sectors ranging from construction to aerospace to IT.
Tailoring terms can improve communication with clients or teams unfamiliar with Agile. For example, if your customer doesn’t resonate with the term “Product Owner,” calling them a “Client Lead” might make more sense. In industries where a Work Breakdown Structure is more recognizable than a Product Backlog, go with what your audience understands.
So, Which Is Better?
It depends on context.
Use strict Scrum terminology when:
- Your team is new to Scrum and needs consistency.
- You’re collaborating with other Scrum teams.
- You want to maintain discipline while learning the framework.
Tailor terminology when:
- Your stakeholders are unfamiliar with Agile language.
- You’re working in a specific domain where different terms are already standard.
- You want to make Agile concepts more accessible to non-technical audiences.
Final Thoughts
Scrum insists on using precise terms to accelerate learning and maintain cohesion. PMI encourages adaptation to suit the audience and industry. The best Program Managers know when to follow the book—and when to rewrite it slightly.
At Skillion, we believe clarity is the goal—whether that means strict adherence to a framework or thoughtful adaptation. The right terminology is the one that moves your team forward.
