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Definition of Ready vs. Definition of Done: Key Concepts in Scrum

Definition of Ready vs. Definition of Done: Key Concepts in Scrum

In Scrum, clarity is key. Two crucial concepts that ensure clarity during sprint planning and execution are the Definition of Ready (DoR) and Definition of Done (DoD). These definitions help teams align on expectations and deliver consistent value.

In this post, we’ll explore what DoR and DoD mean, why they matter, and how they streamline Agile workflows.

What is the Definition of Ready (DoR)?

The Definition of Ready ensures that a product backlog item is fully prepared before it moves into a sprint. If a task doesn’t meet the DoR, it shouldn’t be included in sprint planning.

Key Components of the DoR:

  • Clear Requirements: The user story or task must include sufficient detail.
  • Acceptance Criteria: Defined criteria that clarify what the task must achieve.
  • Dependencies Resolved: No blockers or unresolved questions remain.
  • Estimated by the Team: The task has been discussed and estimated (e.g., using Scrum Poker).

Why DoR Matters:

  • Prevents Ambiguity: Ensures tasks are clear and actionable.
  • Reduces Wasted Time: Teams avoid starting work on items that aren’t ready.
  • Improves Sprint Planning: Teams can confidently commit to deliverables.

What is the Definition of Done (DoD)?

The Definition of Done is a shared understanding of what it means to complete a task or user story. It ensures that deliverables meet quality standards and are ready for release or handoff.

Key Components of the DoD:

  • Code Quality: Code is reviewed, tested, and meets coding standards.
  • Documentation: Relevant documentation (e.g., API guides, user manuals) is updated.
  • Acceptance Criteria Met: The task satisfies all criteria defined in the user story.
  • Deployed or Ready for Deployment: The deliverable is integrated into the main branch and/or deployed to production.

Why DoD Matters:

  • Ensures Consistency: Delivers high-quality, production-ready work every time.
  • Builds Trust: Stakeholders can rely on the team's output.
  • Prevents Rework: Clear quality benchmarks reduce the risk of defects.

How DoR and DoD Work Together

DoR and DoD serve different but complementary purposes in Scrum:

  • DoR is about preparation: Ensures tasks are ready to start.
  • DoD is about completion: Ensures tasks are truly finished.

Example Workflow:

  1. Backlog Refinement: During refinement, ensure each backlog item meets the DoR before marking it ready for sprint planning.
  2. Sprint Execution: Developers complete tasks, adhering to the DoD to ensure quality.
  3. Sprint Review: Only work that meets the DoD is presented to stakeholders.

This alignment reduces miscommunication and enhances productivity.

Practical Tips for Defining DoR and DoD

Creating a Strong Definition of Ready:

  1. Collaborate with the Team: Engage developers, testers, and the Product Owner to agree on readiness criteria.
  2. Use Checklists: Example checklist items:
    • User story has a clear title and description.
    • Acceptance criteria are documented.
    • Dependencies (e.g., designs, APIs) are identified and resolved.
  3. Refine Regularly: Adjust the DoR based on team feedback and evolving project needs.

Crafting a Robust Definition of Done:

  1. Define Quality Standards: Agree on coding practices, testing requirements, and documentation needs.
  2. Include Test Automation: Ensure unit, integration, and end-to-end tests are part of the DoD.
  3. Review and Iterate: Continuously improve the DoD as the team matures.

Benefits of Defining DoR and DoD in Scrum

1. Better Sprint Planning

Teams can plan more effectively when backlog items meet the DoR. There’s less risk of adding tasks that lack clarity, reducing mid-sprint disruptions.

2. Higher Quality Deliverables

With a clear DoD, teams ensure consistent, production-ready outputs that meet stakeholder expectations.

3. Enhanced Collaboration

Both definitions foster collaboration by aligning team members and stakeholders on shared expectations.

4. Improved Stakeholder Trust

When tasks meet the DoR before planning and adhere to the DoD upon completion, stakeholders gain confidence in the team’s process.

Example of DoR and DoD in Action

Scenario:

A Scrum team is tasked with building a login feature for an app.

  • DoR Checklist for the Login Feature:

    • User story: “As a user, I want to log in so I can access my account.”
    • Acceptance criteria: Input validation, error messages, and database storage of credentials are defined.
    • UI design and API specifications are available.
    • Story estimated using Scrum Poker.

  • DoD Checklist for the Login Feature:

    • Code is reviewed and approved.
    • Tests: Unit tests (90% coverage), integration tests, and end-to-end tests are complete.
    • UI matches the design.
    • Deployed to staging and verified.

By following these definitions, the team ensures smooth planning and delivery.

Final Thoughts: The Power of DoR and DoD in Agile

The Definition of Ready and Definition of Done are critical for Scrum teams to achieve clarity, reduce waste, and deliver value. By setting clear standards at the beginning and end of the workflow, teams can work more efficiently and build trust with stakeholders.

Are you ready to optimize your Agile practices? Use tools like our ScrumStacks Planning Poker online app to streamline estimations and ensure tasks meet the DoR before they hit your sprint backlog.