Advanced Certified ScrumMaster Logo

Advanced Certified ScrumMaster

You are a CSM® and have real-world experience applying agile. Take the next step with the Grow-Lean Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) to learn facilitation techniques; powerful questions; to go deep into Kanban, XP and multiple scaling models (SAFe, LeSS, S@S, FAST); to apply root cause analysis; and to improve your ability to grow your team's performance.

Our session is 100% live with exercises, discussion, and collaboration. There are no slides, no videos, and no canned content. If you want independent study, videos, and/or inexperienced trainers, you have options and can save few dollars. If you want deep, experiential learning, choose Grow-Lean.

Student Testimonials

Vetted reviews from class attendees

4.89 - 206 reviews
5.00 - 83 reviews
4.90 - 380 reviews

Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) Testimonials

Key Details

Benefit from Deep Agile Experience of Your Trainer

Live and Interactive

100% Live

Many rely on self-paced work with minimal interaction, our sessions are 100% live and highly interactive with no offline work required.

Actionable

You'll gain actionable techniques to facilitate, teach, mentor, and elevate your teams and organization. You'll leave equipped to apply evidence-based, empirical, approaches that drive individual, team, and organizational performance.

You learn from agile experts Arlen and David, both of whom have well over 20 years of agile experience.

This workshop is 100% live, with over 30 exercises, and is built from the collaborative efforts of the Grow-Lean Training Team, ensuring you get the perfect mix of theory and practice.

Practical and Real

  • Discover how the tools and mental models introduced in class can be applied in your organization.
  • Revisit foundational practices—like with fresh insight, empowering you to identify meaningful opportunities for improvement back at work.
  • Explore the practical implications of theory, such as Conway's Law, when designing and scaling “team of teams” structures.

Session Schedule

Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM)

Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (ACSM)
 31
Tue Dec
thru
 3
Fri Jan
11:00 PM - 5:30 PM (EDT)
18.50 hours each day
Three days

Live Online / Virtual

David Bulkin

CST | CSP-SM | A-CSM | CSP-PO | A-CSPO | CSPO | CAL 1 | CAL-EO | SAFe SPC | PMI-ACP

★★★★★ Testimonials

Want to bring a training to your team or organization?
Contact us to discuss options for private workshops.

Training Discounts

A variety of discounts to fit your situation.

Request your discount on the session (a class on date/time with a trainer) you want. If more than one discount applies explain in your comments.

You can pay in installments by choosing Splitit at checkout.

For Grow-Lean Alumni, log in or use your account email when registering, and receive an automatic discount. If you also qualify for another discount, request it, and, if your email matches, we know you are an alumni.

If you have a Visa or Mastercard credit card you can pay in monthly installments. There are no fees or interest if you pay on time! Your available credit must be enough to cover the full cost and there is a hold on your credit card for the amount that you have not paid.

For example, if your final fee is $999 and you choose three installments:

  • You would pay $333 today and have a $666 hold placed on your credit card.
  • The following month your credit card would be charged another $333 and the hold would be reduced to $333.
  • Your final payment would be $333.

If you are not familiar with the term "hold" this is similar to what hotels do when you check in, to cover extra expenses you may incur including the mini bar.

The benefit to you is that you do not pay any interest or fees if all payments are on time.

Find Session

Find the session you want on the class list, then click "Discounts" link. Early-bird discounts do not need to be requested.

Choose Discounts

You will be on the discounts tab for the class.

Select Discount

Choose the appropriate discount then click the link for it. Not all discounts are available for all sessions.

Enter & Submit

Provide the requested information then click "Submit".

Early Bird
Early Bird

Combines With: Everything

Able to register in advance?

The Early Bird discount is available on many of classes.

There is no need to request it. Simply register while it is available.

If you receive another discount it will combine with the Early Bird.

Out of Pocket
Out of Pocket

Combines With: Alumni, Early Bird

Paying yourself and won't be reimbursed?

The Out of Pocket is for you if you won't be reimbursed. If you are unemployed, a military veteran, or a student request the appropriate discount.

Choose a specific session (class on a date with a trainer), click on Discounts, and complete the request form. If you are not sure of the date, choose a session and explain in the comments.

Group & Private
Group & Private

Combines With: Early Bird

Bringing friends or colleagues to one or more sessions or want a private session?

The Group and Private Discounts are for sending three or more attendees to one or more events or for private events (i.e. just for your team).

To request, choose a session (class on a date with a trainer) you are interested in, click the Discount Link, and when filling out the form describe your situation.

Our Training Team will reach out to you.

Alumni
Alumni

Combines With: Early Bird, Hardship, Out of Pocket, Student, Veteran

Get 5% off for each public session, over $225, you took with us, up to 20%.

The Alumni Discount provides you discounted rates to future Grow-Lean training.

For each Grow-Lean session* you take with us, at a rate of $225 or above, you accumulate another 5% off of a future training, up to 20% off*.

* We have a small number of partner events where the alumni discount does not apply.

Hardship
Hardship

Combines With: Early Bird, Alumni

Suffering an economic hardship and able to provide an unemployment notice or separation agreement?

The Hardship Discount is for you if you are suffering an economic hardship and are able to provide an unemployment notice or separation agreement and are not being reimbursed.

Choose a specific session (class on a date with a trainer), click on Discounts, and complete the request form. If you are not sure of the date, choose a session and explain in the comments.

Student & Educator
Student & Educator

Combines With: Early Bird

Are you a full-time student or educator, with a .edu email address?

The Student Discount is for you if you are a full-time student or educator with a .edu email address.

Choose a specific session (class on a date with a trainer), click on Discounts, and complete the request form. If you are not sure of the date, choose a session and explain in the comments.

When completing the request tell us your major and expected graduation date or explain what you teach and where.

Military & Veteran
Military & Veteran

Combines With: Early Bird

Are you active duty military or a veteran?

The Military / Veteran Discount is applicable if you are active duty, reserve, or retired from the military.

Choose a specific session (class on a date with a trainer), click on Discounts, and complete the request form. If you are not sure of the date, choose a session and explain in the comments.

When completing the request tell us if you will be reimbursed or not.

Get the best value for your training dollar.
Competitive pricing, reputable provider, no hidden costs, and experienced trainer.

Grow Your Career, Grow Your Organization

What You Learn

Topics are explored in depth, with a focus on practical application. For example, when reviewing Scrum Events, we examine patterns that help you tailor practices to your unique environment. For example, instead of defaulting to a person-by-person Daily Scrum, you might shift to a column-by-column approach—moving right to left—to emphasize completing a few items fully.

Every concept is made tangible, not just theoretical. The samples below include embedded exercises; what you're seeing is the outcome. Most topics begin with hands-on activities, followed by deep discussion and reflection.

Thrive Despite Uncertainty

Thrive Despite Uncertainty

What is a Complex System?

Organizations are complex systems with people, process, technology (including AI), behavior, etc. The interplay between the parts creates uncertainty. Use Scrum to address uncertainty.

Complex Systems Game

The sample shows a game to learn basic around complex systems. We then go deeper with real-world examples.

Learn to use Scrum to Thrive with Uncertainty

Most people need a refresh, how Agile and Scrum can address uncertainty, so we start there before going deeper, ensuring you leave with a actionable ideas.

Go Beyond Scrum

Go Beyond Scrum

Scrum is not the Only Answer

We cover how Extreme Programming and Kanban can complement Scrum for team level agility. So, if you think you need to choose Kanban or Scrum, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Scaling with SAFe, LeSS & Scrum@Scale

Per the sample we also cover scaling, dispelling the myth of choosing one framework. For example, Scrum@Scale has popularized a Scaled Daily Scrum (SDS) where one or two members go up a level to the next SDS. This occurs till you reach the C-Level. A SDS can be added to almost any organization.

Grow Your Organization

Grow Your Organization

Make Everyone Better

Ultimately a ScrumMaster aims to make every better. Learn approaches to facilitate, mentor, teach and coach individuals and teams.

Making Conflict Constructive

Invariably, along the way, those you are helping with have conflict. The game shown identifies conflict resolution approaches. We build on that and cover how to move from destructive (think blame passing) to constructive conflict, where we debate issues, learn from each other, and avoid personal attacks.

Build Great Product

Build Great Product

Be Effective, Not Efficient

Don't misuse Scrum as an efficiency paradigm. Figure out what to build, for whom, in which sequence, and what to learn along the way.

Use Story Maps to Plan

The sample shows a Story Map to visualize a users path through our system to sequence stories across our workflow and releases (align strategy and tactics).

Help Your Product Owner...
  • Create Positioning Statements defining what our product will / won't do.
  • Delegate story details so they can focus on strategy and experiments.
  • Align to value instead of to plan.

Choose an Experienced Trainer


David Bulkin

CST | CSP-SM | A-CSM | CSP-PO | A-CSPO | CSPO | CAL 1 | CAL-EO | SAFe SPC | PMI-ACP

David Bulkin is a managing director and head of training services at Grow-Lean. He assists teams as a coach / mentor; delivers training, and builds product. He has trained 20,000 students, and impacted thousands via public speaking and coaching. Unlike many trainer/coaches, he continues to build systems.

David delivers training, including the CSM, A-CSM, CSPO and A-CSPO courses; and has trained over 20,000 students with over 10,000 of them being with the Scrum Alliance.

David mentors and coaches teams and individuals.

He does all of this while actively building software, filling various roles at different times, including designing, coding, testing, PO and Scrum Master (think about that, someone who does what they teach).

David's commitment to helping others, combined with his continued work as a team member, positions him to deliver practical perspective that will help you boost your career.

David's thought leadership in 2009 on progressive elaboration for agile requirements influenced what is now known as refinement (entering Scrum in 2011). David has successfully applied agile to manufacturing, marketing, sales, finance, and other areas outside of IT. He was an independent reviewer of the original PMI-ACP body of knowledge that fed the creation of the PMI-ACP Exam and has worked on the exam questions for the Certified Scrum Master Exam. David’s broad background ensures you are getting up-to-date ideas to apply.

David is an industry veteran with 40 years of product development experience. In 2001, David's eBanking Team at JP Morgan Chase implemented agile with Kent Beck, the Father of Extreme Programming (XP), and perhaps also Agile, was the team coach. In addition to eBanking, David was also responsible for Online Account Opening, Insurance and Retirement Services.

David's deep experience, his high energy level, and his continued hands-on work helps David stays practical and level headed. He is able to understand your needs so you benefit from his experience.

Arlen Bankston

CST | CSP-SM | CSP-PO | CAL | A-CSM | CSM | A-CSPO | CSPO | LSS MB | SAFe SPC5

Arlen Bankston, a pioneering figure in the agile movement, was one of the first to integrate lean systems thinking and user experience practices with agile software development methodologies. His innovative approach has left a lasting impact on the field.

Currently, Arlen is a sought-after coach and trainer, specializing in advanced courses such as the Advanced CSPO, Certified Scrum Professional PO, Certified Scrum Professional - ScrumMaster, Certified Agile Leadership Essentials and Team, as well as custom sessions including the Grow-Lean Remote and Hybrid Work. His expertise extends beyond the realm of software, exploring Lean, Six Sigma, BPM and other process management and systems thinking approaches to provide organizations with a comprehensive perspective.

Arlen's journey in the agile world began with his early involvement in the Scrum Alliance (member number 41) and as one of the first Certified Scrum Trainers . He further expanded his knowledge by becoming a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt during his six-year tenure leading a Lean-Agile practice. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found the consultancy LitheSpeed, which he successfully led for fifteen years before joining Grow-Lean.

Known for his thought leadership and dynamic, entertaining, and practical training style, Arlen has trained and mentored thousands of ScrumMasters, Product Owners, team members and executives. He designed the Agile Leadership Academy to address the leadership and structural challenges that many successful companies still face.

Arlen's client list spans across every industry and includes notable names such as RBC, Monster, Marriott, NBC Universal, CNBC, NGA, Capital One, T. Rowe Price, Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae and the Armed Forces Benefits Association. His book “HR and the Agile Organization” provides valuable insights on how human resources departments can adapt to support organizations striving for adaptability while enhancing employee engagement and retention.

Benefits You Earn

Valuable post class benefits including membership, a free class retake, etc.

By taking the session, you earn the chance to become a Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) as long as you meet requirements for work experience (one year as a ScrumMaster) and have a CSM (note your CSM does not need to be active).

The advanced certification will differentiate you, but more importantly, the deep learning will allow you to interview with confidence and apply advanced techniques in the work place.

CSM Renewal
Extend your CSM certification if you are a CSM holder who let your CSM expire. You are renewed for two years.
Six Practice Quizzes
Use our practice quizzes to get back up to date for things your forgot from your CSM, .
Certification Fees
Your certification fees are covered, there are no additional charges.
One-on-One Coaching
75 minute, one-one-one session with David A. Bulkin.
16 PMI PDUs
16 Professional Development Units to help meet your PMI continuing education requirements.
Two Year Scrum Alliance Membership
Scrum Alliance Membership for two years providing access to a resource library to advance your career.
One Free Class Retake
Take a second virtual class within 120 days (if still offered by Grow-Lean).
Alumni Discount
Take a training at $225 or above and get 5% off your next session. Get an additional 5% off for each training of $225 you take up to 25%.
Grow-Lean Uplift Your Future program banner
UpLift Your Future Program
Facing hardship?
We’re offering extra support.

When we lift each other up, we all rise to new heights

Job loss, the fear of it, and financial hardships can be overwhelming. We have heard from many of our community members about the challenges they are facing, and we want to help.

Through October 31, 2025, we are offering deeper discounts for those facing hardship, students, veterans, and groups. This is your chance to keep moving forward without letting finances hold you back.

Browse our upcoming sessions, pick one that fits your schedule, and select the “Discounts” link to apply.

Let’s navigate this journey together.

Elevate your impact
Exclusive Bonus - One on One Coaching

60-minute coaching session with an agile expert

To ensure transformative value beyond certification, your trainer is offering an exclusive bonus a complimentary 60-minute, one-on-one coaching session to the first 10 registrants of each session.

This will help you translate your newly acquired knowledge into actionable strategies for your team, your organization and yourself.

Secure your spot now and seize this unique opportunity to work directly with an industry expert.

100% Live Online Training
No Outside Work Required

Get Certified by taking the class

Earn your certification in a 100% live, online class, with no additional / outside work required. We do ask that you read the Scrum Guide which is at most 30 minutes of time.

The class has 40 exercises followed by discussion and reflection about real-world opportunities and challenges.

Avoid offline study and low interaction training by signing up today.

Benefit from a Free Retake
Love it or Learn Again
for Free Guarantee™

Ensure Your Quality

Want more value from the session we will work with you to make it happen with options including a free retake and/or one-on-one support.

Get the best quality training from a provider you can trust.

Benefit from Experience and Interaction

Competitors often mimic our course descriptions, but they can't copy David's experience. Benefit from a trainer who delivers a real-world, deep, hands-on, workshop.

From Your Trainer

"Choosing a provider can be challenging, especially as competitors often mimic our site content. What other trainers can't match is my 40 years of product development experience, 25 years of experience in agile, and two decades of teaching.

I also maintain a light class load allowing me to stay actively involved in product development where I build product. Staying current allow me to be authentic covering applied theory / real-world application.

I personally guarantee that the class will be small, tailored to your specific needs, genuine, and highly interactive."

David A. Bulkin

No Offline Work Required

For our session, there is no required offline work. We do recommend you read the Scrum Guide, but even that is optional. Be aware of other options where you will be watching videos and doing independent work.

Choose Experience
Years of systems/product development experience
David: 40
Other Trainer: Likely Less
Years of agile experience
David: 24
Other Trainer: Likely Less
Continues to do agile product development
David: Yes!
Other Trainer: Likely Not
Choose Interaction
Energy level of trainer
David: High
Other Trainer: Likely Less
Workshop exercises
David: 40 plus
Other Trainer: Likely Less
Class size
David: Intentionally Small
Other Trainer: Likely Larger
Avoid Fluff and Filler
Videos in the workshop
David: None
Other Trainer: Likely More
Slides in the workshop
David: None
Other Trainer: Likely More
Filler and fluff material in the workshop
David: None
Other Trainer: Likely More

Everything Included

With Grow-Lean, there are no nasty surprises!

Be careful of the company you pick. With Grow-Lean everything is covered including the certification fees and renewal of your CSM license if it has expired. There are no surprise costs when you register or accept your license.

As an added bonuses you get:

  • Practice quizzes.
  • 1-on-1 time with your trainer.
  • Free class retake with 120 days.
  • Discounts off of the Certified Scrum Professional ScrumMaster (CSP-SM).

Go Beyond Scrum

There is more to agile than just Scrum, we help you grow with other frameworks

As an advanced class we go beyond Scrum and cover how to grow with practices from other agile frameworks:

  • XP and DevOps: Engineering practices to continuously integrate and deliver.
  • SAFe®, LeSS® Scrum@Scale®:  FAST®p; Align multiple teams on one endeavor.
  • Kanban: Limit WIP, increase focus and create flow.
  • Lean: Apply the mindset from the mother of agile.
  • Lean Startup®: Apply build-measure-learn loops to improve outcomes.
  • Operational and Plan Driven Approaches: Sometimes agile is not the answer

Don't stop at Scrum. Come to this session and learn how to apply ideas from a variety of frameworks.

Why choose David as a Trainer?

Live Online Workshop with an Agile Expert.

If you want to take a live online A-CSM Workshop you have options, but, one thing you can't get with the others is David Bulkin who:

  • Has been actively applying agile since 2001 when his team at JP Morgan Chase applied XP for eBanking development.
  • Has been building product since 1984.
  • Still is part of an agile product development team, filling various roles at different times.

Because you will...

  • Experience a blend of exercises, real-world case studies, engaging games, deep problem solving, and more.
  • Oscillate between theory and application to illustrate the gap between what is possible most often done in business environments.

Because you get...

  1. Deep discussion and learning.
  2. A 100% live collaborative session.
  3. Meaningful answers to questions.
  4. Case studies and real-life examples.

Plus, you will laugh! We provide edutainment so that you have energy that drives retention.

Practice Quizzes?

There is no exam, but the quizzes reinforce learnings

You might remember taking your CSM Exam. Although there is no exam for the A-CSM or CSP-SM you can still get significant benefit from our quizzes as the review the CSM material and go beyond, covering advanced topics.

  • The practice quizzes are active learning that increases retention.
  • They apply what cognitive science calls retrieval practice.
  • Retrieval practice makes learning challenging which helps you remember the material.

If you have time prior to the session use them as a refresher. Or perhaps, during the session you notice some weak spots and review the quizzes post class to fill in the knowledge gaps.

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