During backlog review, what does the scrum team use to determine the size of each work item?

The scrum team utilizes story points during backlog reviews to determine the size of each work item. Story points are a relative measure of the complexity, effort, and risk involved in implementing a user story or task. By assigning story points, teams can effectively estimate the workload associated with each item in the backlog, facilitating better planning and prioritization.

Using story points allows teams to focus on the relative size of tasks rather than getting bogged down in exact time estimates, which can vary based on individual performance and other factors. This technique aids in creating a shared understanding among the team about the scope of work and the effort required to complete each item, enabling more accurate sprint planning and workload assessments.

In contrast, task completion rates are retrospective and do not provide a predictive measure for upcoming work. Customer feedback can guide the priorities and features but does not help in sizing work items. Time estimates can be useful but may not take into account the nuances of complexity and risk that story points encompass. Overall, story points provide a framework that supports the agile principles of adaptability and iterative progress in scrum practices.