SME

By Miranda Dulin

Published in Glossary

January 22, 2024

1 min read

Definition of SME

SME is an acronym for Service Matter Expert.

Back of a vocabulary card for the term SME

Agile practitioners need to be familiar with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) due to their vital role in ensuring project success in Agile environments. SMEs provide essential guidance and deep insights in their area of expertise, greatly enhancing the accuracy and relevance of project work. Their contributions are particularly valuable in defining and clarifying project requirements, developing user stories, and setting precise acceptance criteria that accurately reflect user needs and business objectives. This level of detail and accuracy is crucial for maintaining the integrity and quality of the final product.

Additionally, SMEs are instrumental in quality assurance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Their specialized knowledge helps in identifying potential issues early on and suggesting high-quality solutions, thereby mitigating risks and enhancing the overall quality of the product. They also play a key role in educating and training Agile team members, facilitating a deeper understanding of the domain, which is essential for informed decision-making and innovation. Moreover, by acting as a liaison between the Agile team and other stakeholders, including customers and business leaders, SMEs ensure that the development process is inclusive of all perspectives, ultimately leading to greater customer satisfaction. Their involvement is crucial in creating a product that not only meets but often exceeds customer expectations, thereby fostering customer loyalty and trust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a Product Owner a SME?

A Product Owner in Agile can be a Subject Matter Expert (SME), but it’s not a necessity. Their primary role is to maximize product value, which sometimes requires SME-level knowledge, yet their expertise often lies more in strategic decision-making.

What Is the Difference Between Subject Matter Expert and Scrum Master?

The primary distinction between a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and a Scrum Master is their area of specialization: SMEs have in-depth knowledge in specific domains or technologies, while a Scrum Master specializes in Scrum theory and practices, making them a specialized type of SME. While every Scrum Master is an expert in Scrum, not all SMEs have expertise in Scrum, and similarly, not all Scrum Masters hold deep knowledge in other specific domains or technologies.