Which statement best describes the IP Sprint function?

• A. They facilitate reliability, program increment readiness, planning and innovation
• B. They replace the maintenance window
• C. They have no impact on planning
• D. They are used exclusively for customer training

Answer: (A)

The IP Sprint is a dedicated time box at the end of every Program Increment that focuses on activities beyond delivering user stories in the current increment. It exists to support reliability and long-term value by giving teams a window to innovate, plan for the next PI, and make improvements to the system and processes. This period ensures there is time for exploration, addressing technical debt, integration work, and preparation for upcoming PI planning, so the program can be ready and aligned for the next increment. Because of that, it clearly supports planning and innovation, while also contributing to overall reliability of the solution and the program’s cadence. It doesn’t replace a maintenance window, isn’t solely for customer training, and it does have impact on planning, since part of its purpose is to prepare and align for the next PI.