Can a Product Owner work as a Developer on a Scrum Team?

The reason the answer stating that a Product Owner can participate in the Sprint Backlog is correct lies in the understanding of the roles within a Scrum Team. In Scrum, the Product Owner is primarily responsible for managing the Product Backlog, which includes defining and prioritizing the work to be accomplished by the team. However, Scrum does not strictly prohibit the Product Owner from contributing to the development work.

When a Product Owner engages in the team’s development efforts, they can help clarify requirements and provide context, which can enhance collaboration and understanding within the team. Participation in the Sprint Backlog is often about contributing to the team's goals, managing scope, and ensuring that any technical solutions meet the product vision.

This flexibility in roles is one of the strengths of Scrum, as it emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. If the Product Owner has the necessary skills, their involvement can be beneficial and lead to a more cohesive approach to delivering value during the Sprint.