During Sprint Planning, who should clarify the relationship between Product Backlog items and the Product Goal?

During Sprint Planning, it is essential for the Product Owner to clarify the relationship between Product Backlog items and the Product Goal. The Product Owner is responsible for managing the Product Backlog and ensuring that it reflects the vision and goals of the product. This includes articulating how each backlog item contributes to achieving the overall Product Goal. By doing so, the Product Owner helps the team understand what needs to be accomplished during the Sprint and how those items align with the long-term objectives of the product.

This role is crucial because a clear understanding of how backlog items relate to the Product Goal helps the team prioritize their work and make informed decisions during the Sprint. When the team understands the context and significance of their tasks, they can focus on delivering value that supports the overarching goals, ensuring that their efforts are aligned with stakeholder expectations and the product vision.

The other roles in the context of this question, such as the Product Manager, stakeholders, or the Scrum Master, have their own responsibilities. However, they do not primarily hold the accountability for clarifying the relationship between the Product Backlog and the Product Goal in the context of Sprint Planning. The Product Owner uniquely possesses the insight and authority to communicate this essential connection effectively.