In scrum, who should know the most about the progress toward the Product Goal?

In the Scrum framework, the individual who should possess the most comprehensive knowledge regarding progress toward the Product Goal is the Product Owner. This role is pivotal within the Scrum Team, entrusted with the responsibility of optimizing the product's value and ensuring that the Development Team's efforts align with overarching business objectives.

The Product Goal, introduced as a significant component in the Scrum Guide's 2020 update, embodies the envisioned future state of the product that the Scrum Team strives to achieve. It serves as a guiding beacon for the team's work and direction. The Product Owner bears the primary accountability for formulating and sustaining the Product Goal, drawing upon a profound understanding of the product's vision, market demands, and stakeholder expectations.

One of the Product Owner's core responsibilities is to communicate and articulate the Product Goal clearly to the Scrum Team. This includes fostering a shared understanding of the goal's significance, the benefits it aims to deliver, and the progress made towards its realization. By being intimately involved in defining the Product Goal, the Product Owner is uniquely positioned to track and comprehend the progress made by the team towards achieving this objective.

Furthermore, the Product Owner collaborates closely with stakeholders to gather feedback, refine the Product Goal as needed, and ensure that the product's development aligns with evolving market dynamics and customer needs. This continuous engagement and alignment help the Product Owner stay abreast of progress, challenges, and adjustments required to steer the team towards successfully attaining the Product Goal.

The Product Owner's in-depth knowledge of the product landscape, market conditions, customer expectations, and strategic business goals enables them to serve as the primary source of information and insights regarding progress towards the Product Goal. Their role is pivotal in guiding the Scrum Team's efforts, prioritizing work items, making informed decisions, and ultimately delivering value that aligns with the product's overarching vision and objectives.