How frequently should the Program Backlog be reviewed?

The Program Backlog should be reviewed continuously to ensure it remains aligned with the evolving needs of the business, stakeholders, and market conditions. This continuous review process allows Product Managers and stakeholders to adapt to changes effectively, prioritize work based on feedback or new insights, and ensure that all the necessary features, enablers, and non-functional requirements are accurately represented in the backlog.

Continuous review facilitates an ongoing conversation between the teams and stakeholders, which helps build a shared understanding of priorities and enhances the overall planning process. This dynamic approach is particularly vital in Agile environments, where the pace of change can significantly affect product direction.

Reviewing the Program Backlog at fixed intervals, such as monthly or at the end of each Program Increment (PI), would limit flexibility. It could lead to a backlog that is outdated or misaligned with current priorities, potentially delaying value delivery to customers or hindering responsiveness to market shifts. Continuous assessment ensures the backlog is a living document that evolves with the team's insights and the organization’s strategic objectives.