Sprint ceremonies getting faster - should we revert? When we started our agile project we were doing everything by the book. Over time, this has somewhat slipped into a more relaxed style. We still get the information we need, share what needs sharing and communicate effectively. I am now wondering if we should pull on their reigns a little and get more formal again. Is the time spent as a team getting to know each other and more comfortable in the meetings conducive to ineffective group work and something to be controlled or (assuming the stories are progressing well) is it ok to let formality slide a little?

This question is a bit difficult to answer without knowing your team's dynamics. That said, it's always good to understand and verbalize the goals of each event and to make sure those goals are met throughout the ceremony, even if things are running smoothly. Timeboxes are only there to ensure you don't go over the allotted time. In the event you hit the goal of a ceremony early, all the better.

I work in an environment with a mature team that is really gelling at the moment and I always remind myself: **Individuals and interactions over processes and tools**. Process takes a backseat to human connection and collaboration. Once the team's effective communication is in good shape, we can focus on the processes that give our team the framework they need to excel. The Scrum framework thrives when the values are embraced. Once those values are embraced, the process and tools become that much more effective.