The Cross-Team Refinement event in the Nexus framework is essentially an expanded version of the Product Backlog Refinement activity from the Scrum framework. Unlike in Scrum, where Product Backlog Refinement is not a mandated event and can be carried out informally or during Sprint Planning, the Nexus framework emphasises a more formal approach. This event focuses on breaking down Product Backlog items into smaller, manageable units that can be planned and delivered in future Sprints.
During Cross-Team Refinement, dependencies between Product Backlog items are identified, understood, and made transparent. The aim is to eliminate these dependencies wherever possible. This detailed Refinement process helps Scrum Teams work more independently and effectively during their Sprints, enhancing their ability to deliver a Done Increment by the Sprint’s end.