What is the target story count for Backlog grooming sessions?

The target story count for Backlog grooming sessions is typically set to be two sprints' worth of stories. This approach allows the team to effectively prepare for the upcoming work by ensuring that there is enough detail and priority established for the next few iterations. By having a backlog that is two sprints’ worth of stories, the team can evaluate and prioritize user stories, clarify requirements, and address any dependencies or blockers in advance. This level of preparation enables the team to maintain a steady workflow and minimizes the risk of being caught off-guard by unexpected complexities during sprint planning.

By committing to this two-sprint target, the team balances having enough items to focus on while still being able to adapt to changes in priority or scope that may arise. It also fosters productive discussions around user stories as the team refines their understanding and shares insights. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring that the Agile process runs smoothly and effectively, underlining the importance of backlog grooming sessions in the overall project management cycle.