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In the Scrum framework, the Definition of Done (DoD) is a shared understanding among the team regarding the quality and completeness of the work that needs to be achieved in a user story in order to consider it done. It adds clarity and transparency, enabling the scrum team to have a common objective. Understanding and implementing a strong Definition of Done (DoD) is a critical aspect for those studying for the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) exam. A robust DoD helps teams manage their workflow, increases efficiency, and reduces unnecessary workload. In this regard, this article aims to facilitate the creation or improvement of a strong Definition of Done.
The Definition of Done acts as an agreement that guides the development team on the checklist of activities they need to execute to consider a user story or a product backlog item (PBI) complete. The DoD helps teams improve their work process by:
Creating a strong DoD requires agreement and consistent application. Given below are some parameters that might be included in your DoD:
Parameter | Description |
---|---|
Code Complete | Code meets the team’s quality standards and fulfills the acceptance criteria |
Tested | Code has been thoroughly tested and passed all the unit, integration, and system tests |
Documented | Relevant documentation is complete and updated |
Reviewed | The code has been peer-reviewed, and any findings have been addressed |
Deployable | Code can be deployed into a production environment without any impediments |
Each team’s DoD may vary depending on their project requirements, organizational guidelines, and team maturity.
A DoD is not a static document; it evolves as the team matures and understands their work better. Some ways to improve the DoD include:
In the A-CSM course, Scrum Masters learn about facilitating dialog between the Development Team and Product Owner to establish an effective DoD. They also learn to facilitate the team’s progress towards the overall organizational and project goals.
Moreover, the A-CSM exam assesses the candidate’s understanding and application of the Scrum framework, and this includes establishing a solid DoD that drives productivity and eliminates waste in the development process, which adds significant value to the project.
In conclusion, a strong DoD is crucial in project development and essential for an Advanced Certified ScrumMaster. By incorporating regular reviews, gathering feedback, and making ongoing adjustments, your team can create and maintain a robust Definition of Done.
True
False
a) Code has been tested
b) The increment is potentially shippable
c) Documentation is complete
d) All of the above
True
False
a) Product Owner
b) Scrum Master
c) Development Team
d) All of the above
True
False
a) Adding tasks that are nice to have but not necessary for the increment to be shippable.
b) Removing necessary tasks because they take too much time and slow down the team.
c) Including an acceptance criteria review to ensure the increment meets the Product Owner’s expectations.
d) Making it more flexible so that it can change from Sprint to Sprint.
True
False
a) Product Owner
b) Development Team
c) Scrum Master
d) Stakeholders
True
False
a) It helps the team understand what it means for work to be finished.
b) It guides the team during Sprint Planning.
c) It helps maintain a high-quality product.
d) All of the above.
True
False
a) It should be clear and concise.
b) It should be aligned with organizational standards and goals.
c) It should be adjusted to fit each individual sprint.
d) It should be achievable within one sprint.
40 Replies to “facilitate the creation or improvement of a strong Definition of Done.”
Thank you for this post! Helped me prepare for my A-CSM exam.
Great blog post! Very informative on creating a solid Definition of Done for A-CSM exams.
Ensuring the team understands every aspect of the Definition of Done is crucial.
Agreed. Misunderstandings can lead to incomplete tasks.
Clear communication is vital for this.
Looking forward to applying these tips in my next sprint.
How often should the Definition of Done be revisited and updated?
It’s generally a good idea to revisit it after every sprint or during the sprint retrospective.
I agree, especially after adapting new technologies or processes.
I disagree. The blog doesn’t address the flexibility needed in agile environments.
Updating the Definition of Done also helps in continuous improvement.
Absolutely! It ensures the process evolves with the team’s needs.
Continuous improvement is key to agile success.
Make sure your Definition of Done includes non-functional requirements too.
Good point! Often overlooked aspects.
Absolutely, performance and security criteria should be included.
Valuable insights. Thanks for sharing!
Strongly agree with involving the Product Owner in defining ‘done’.
Product Owner involvement also ensures customer expectations are met.
The Product Owner’s input ensures the Definition aligns with business goals.
Can anyone share examples of good Definitions of Done?
Another example: ‘User story acceptance criteria met, code merged to master, and deployment to production environment.’
Sure! Example: ‘Code is complete, tested, and reviewed, documentation is updated, and customer approval is received.’
What are the common pitfalls when defining the Definition of Done?
One common pitfall is making it too vague. Specificity is key.
Another pitfall is not updating it regularly to reflect changes in team processes.
Important topic to understand for the A-CSM exam. Thank you!
Thanks for this blog post. Informative.
Any tips on getting team buy-in for a stronger Definition of Done?
Ensure it’s a collaborative effort and highlight the benefits to the team.
Engage the team in crafting it. Buy-in comes from participation.
What role does the ScrumMaster play in maintaining the Definition of Done?
ScrumMaster ensures the Definition of Done is clear and understood by everyone.
Also, the ScrumMaster facilitates discussions to update it as needed.
Fantastic post. Clarified many doubts about the Definition of Done.
Thanks for the insights on enhancing the Definition of Done.
I appreciate the detailed steps on improving the Definition of Done. Very helpful.
I completely agree! A strong Definition of Done is crucial for ensuring clear expectations.
True, it helps avoid miscommunication within the team.
Absolutely, and it often boosts team morale when everyone knows what ‘done’ really means.