If Developers no longer want to hold Daily Scrums, how should a Scrum Master respond?

The most appropriate response for a Scrum Master when Developers express a desire to discontinue Daily Scrums is to check if ad-hoc conversations can effectively serve the same purpose. This approach aligns with the principle of self-management within Scrum.

By investigating whether informal conversations can replace the structure and benefits provided by the Daily Scrum, the Scrum Master encourages open dialogue and reflection within the team. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement, where the Scrum Team can explore their needs and adapt their processes accordingly. If those informal interactions keep the team aligned and informed, it validates the Developers' concerns while also ensuring that they are still engaging in regular communication about progress, impediments, and coordination.

This response also ensures that the decision is team-driven rather than imposed from outside, preserving the integral values of collaboration and self-organization that are foundational to Scrum. The Scrum Master's role here is to facilitate discussions and help the team find the most effective way to meet their goals while adhering to Scrum principles.