Scrum guide · Artifacts and practices
Scrum Software Tools: What to Look For
Scrum doesn't require software, but most teams, especially remote ones, use a tool to manage backlogs and Sprints. The right tool makes Scrum easier; the wrong one adds bureaucracy.
Key takeaways
- A Scrum tool needs a backlog, Sprint board and reports.
- Start simple and add configuration only as needed.
- Trial tools on a real Sprint.
Must-have features
- Ordered Product Backlog with easy drag-and-drop.
- Sprint planning with capacity view.
- A Scrum board for the Sprint Backlog.
- Story points and estimation support.
- Burndown, burnup and velocity reports.
- Sprint Goal visible on the board.
- Integrations with chat, documents and code repositories.
- Read access for stakeholders.
Commonly used tools
Teams often use Jira, Azure DevOps, ClickUp, Asana, Wrike, monday.com, Linear, Trello or Notion for Scrum. Features and pricing change frequently; check current details on vendors' websites and trial tools on a real Sprint.
Adoption tips
- Start with default settings and add fields only when needed.
- Keep one Product Backlog per product.
- Agree conventions, such as how to write items and use labels.
- Review whether the tool helps in a Retrospective after a few Sprints.
Frequently asked questions
Do we need a paid Scrum tool?
No. Many teams start with a physical board or a free tier. Pay for features that solve real problems.
Should all teams use the same Scrum tool?
It helps for coordination and reporting across teams, but forcing one tool on very different teams can backfire.
What is the best Scrum tool?
There is no single best tool. Jira and Azure DevOps are common in software teams, while ClickUp, Asana, Wrike and monday.com suit mixed teams. See project management tools.
Is Jira a Scrum tool?
Jira supports Scrum with backlogs, Sprint boards, story points and reports such as burndown and velocity charts, and it is widely used by Scrum teams. See our Jira review.
Can Trello work as a Scrum tool?
Yes, for simple setups. A list per Sprint stage and labels for points can work, but reporting is limited without add-ons. See our Trello review.
What features should a Scrum tool have?
An ordered backlog, Sprint planning, a Sprint board, estimation fields, burndown and velocity reports, a visible Sprint Goal and integrations with code and chat tools.
Can Excel be used as a Scrum tool?
A spreadsheet can hold a backlog and simple burndown, but it lacks a live board and collaboration features. It is a stopgap rather than a long-term solution.
Are there free Scrum tools?
Yes. Several tools offer free tiers suitable for small teams. Check each vendor's current limits on users and features.
Should the Scrum Master own the Scrum tool?
Not necessarily. Anyone can administer it; what matters is that the tool supports the team's way of working rather than dictating it.
How do you choose between Scrum tools?
List must-have features, trial two or three tools on a real Sprint and ask the team which helped most. See how to choose project management software.
Do Scrum tools replace Scrum events?
No. Tools support transparency, but conversations at Sprint Planning, the Daily Scrum, Review and Retrospective cannot be replaced by software.