When must the Product Owner release each Increment to production?

The concept of releasing each Increment to production revolves around the idea that the decision to release should be based on the value it brings to stakeholders and the timing that aligns with business needs. Therefore, releasing "when it makes sense" allows the Product Owner to consider various factors, such as market conditions, customer readiness, and other strategic elements that could influence the best time for a release.

This choice reflects the flexibility inherent in Scrum, where the Product Owner has the authority to decide the optimal moment for delivery. Releasing increments can depend on multiple considerations, such as dependency on other features, readiness of the market, or even strategic business decisions that prioritize timing over a strict schedule.

In contrast, the other options suggest a more rigid structure. For example, releasing "at the end of every Sprint" implies a requirement that may not align with the business's current or anticipated needs. Additionally, the idea of releasing before Sprint Planning does not accommodate the working context of Scrum, where planning is dependent on completed increments. Releasing "as soon as the Increment is completed" might suggest immediacy without regard for broader alignment and project strategy, contrary to the Product Owner's role in maximizing product value over mere completion.