Concepts
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.
Role of a 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:
- Reducing rework and waste by ensuring tasks are adequately completed before being handed off.
- Enabling predictability in the delivery of the product increment.
- Aligning the team on what ‘done’ means, removing ambiguity.
Creating a Strong Definition of Done
Creating a strong DoD requires agreement and consistent application. Given below are some parameters that might be included in your DoD:
- Code Complete: The code meets the team’s quality standards and fulfills the acceptance criteria.
- Tested: The 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 issues.
| 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.
Improving Your Definition of Done
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:
- Regular Reflections: Schedule regular reviews of the DoD as a part of sprint retrospectives.
- Stakeholder Feedback: Obtain feedback from stakeholders to understand if the DoD fulfills the business requirements.
- Regular Adjustments: Update the DoD frequently to capture changes in the project and organizational environment.
A-CSM and Definition of Done
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.
Answer the Questions in Comment Section
True or False: The Definition of Done (DoD) is a checklist that the Scrum Team uses to determine whether a product increment is potentially releasable.
True
False
Which of the following can be included in the Definition of Done?
a) Code has been tested
b) The increment is potentially shippable
c) Documentation is complete
d) All of the above
True or False: The Definition of Done should be consistent and unchanged throughout the project.
True
False
In Scrum, who is responsible for defining the Definition of Done?
a) Product Owner
b) Scrum Master
c) Development Team
d) All of the above
True or False: If the Definition of Done for an increment is part of the conventions, standards, or guidelines of the development organization, all Scrum Teams must follow it as a minimum.
True
False
What would be a good improvement to a team’s Definition of Done?
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 or False: The Scrum Master and Product Owner can define the Definition of Done without the Development Team’s input.
True
False
Who is responsible for facilitating the creation or improvement of a strong Definition of Done?
a) Product Owner
b) Development Team
c) Scrum Master
d) Stakeholders
True or False: If an item does not meet the Definition of Done by the end of a Sprint, it should be presented during the Sprint review anyways.
True
False
Why is having a strong Definition of Done important in Scrum?
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 or False: The Definition of Done should include items that are specific to each individual team member’s role.
True
False
Which of the following is NOT a guiding principle when creating a Definition of Done?
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.
Great blog post! Very informative on creating a solid Definition of Done for A-CSM exams.
I completely agree! A strong Definition of Done is crucial for ensuring clear expectations.
Thank you for this post! Helped me prepare for my A-CSM exam.
I appreciate the detailed steps on improving the Definition of Done. Very helpful.
How often should the Definition of Done be revisited and updated?
Thanks for the insights on enhancing the Definition of Done.
Can anyone share examples of good Definitions of Done?
Make sure your Definition of Done includes non-functional requirements too.