The "Definition of Done" (DoD) in Agile Project Management is a clear, shared set of criteria that must be met for a piece of work—such as a task, user story, feature, or product increment—to be considered complete. This ensures that everyone on the team has the same understanding of what "finished" means, reducing ambiguity and improving quality, transparency, and accountability. The DoD typically covers functional requirements, quality standards, documentation, testing, and necessary approvals, and is collaboratively agreed upon by the team and stakeholders before work begins.
"The definition of done (DoD) is a collection of deliverables within a project or contract that, when completed, will act as verifiable and demonstrable benchmarks for a project. In short, it’s a list of deliverables and a shared understanding of expectations on the requirements the team must meet before releasing a product to users."
Definition of Done:
3-5 current projects in the department are listed.
Each project is classified as either Traditional or Agile, with a clear, concise explanation for each classification.
Explanations reference relevant factors (e.g., project requirements, flexibility, stakeholder involvement).
The section is reviewed for completeness and clarity.
Definition of Done:
At least three specific ideas are provided for how Agile could be applied in the department.
Each idea includes a brief explanation of potential improvements to work, processes, or outcomes.
Reflections are relevant to the department’s actual context and challenges.
Responses are clearly written, with no significant gaps.
Definition of Done:
All current projects are reviewed and classified as either Traditional, Agile, or Hybrid.
Each classification includes a brief justification referencing project characteristics.
The analysis considers requirements, flexibility, stakeholder involvement, and change management.
The section is complete, with no missing projects or explanations.
Definition of Done:
Three Agile principles are selected and applied to the department.
For each principle, a specific example is provided showing how it would improve processes, collaboration, or outcomes.
Examples are relevant and clearly explained.
The section is reviewed for completeness and clarity.
Definition of Done:
A project is selected and described (real or fictitious, bonus for real).
Scrum roles (Product Owner, Scrum Master, Team Members) are assigned with names and job titles.
Each role assignment includes a rationale explaining why the person is suitable.
The section is complete, with no missing roles or explanations.
Definition of Done:
A project charter is drafted using the provided template (IT or Non-IT).
All sections (Title, Vision, Mission, Objectives, Scope, Success Criteria, Deliverables, Roles, Timeline, Assumptions, Risks, Code of Conduct) are filled out.
Information is specific to the chosen project and tailored to its context.
The charter is clear, organized, and ready for team review.
Definition of Done:
A real or relevant project is selected and described.
A prioritized Product Backlog is created, listing all necessary tasks/features.
A Sprint Backlog is developed for a 1–2 week sprint, with achievable items.
The Increment is described, detailing what will be delivered at sprint’s end.
Each artifact is specific, realistic, and demonstrates understanding of Agile concepts.
Definition of Done:
A work area or initiative is selected and described.
The core problem or need is clearly identified.
Only essential features for the MVP are listed, focusing on immediate value.
The MVP plan includes how it will be tested and how feedback will be gathered.
The section is concise and actionable.
Definition of Done:
The same project/task from earlier is used for consistency.
A clear, specific DoD is written, listing all criteria for 100% completion (quality, approvals, documentation, testing, etc.).
The DoD is unambiguous and easy for the team to use.
The section is reviewed for clarity and completeness.
Definition of Done:
Five specific ways the participant creates value for the organization are listed.
Each item is relevant to the participant’s role, team, or department.
Explanations are clear and reflect an understanding of value in Agile.
The section is complete and well-organized.
Definition of Done:
At least one company initiative is selected and described.
2–3 epics are drafted for each initiative, each clearly described and actionable.
Each epic is aligned with the initiative and supports its achievement.
The section is organized and reviewed for clarity.
Definition of Done:
Several backlog items are selected and described. (Use the ones you identified in Activity 7. Scrum Artifacts)
For each, a user story is written in the standard format (“As a [user], I want to [do something], so that [benefit]”). No need to follow this format.
Acceptance criteria are listed for each user story. Refer to Activity 9 Definition of Done on how to write Acceptance Criteria
Large stories are broken down as needed. (Optional)
User stories are clear, focused, and reviewed for completeness.
Definition of Done:
All user stories from the previous section are reviewed.
Story points are assigned to each, using a consistent scale.
Reasoning for point assignments is documented or discussed.
Estimates are checked for consistency and realism.
The section is complete and ready for team planning.
Definition of Done:
The recent sprint is reflected upon using the provided questions (What went well? What could have gone better? What should we try next?).
Specific examples and actionable insights are provided.
Action items are identified and documented.
The section is honest, constructive, and reviewed for completeness.
For each activity, evaluate based on:
Completeness: All required elements are addressed.
Clarity: Responses are understandable and well-organized.
Application: Demonstrates understanding by applying Agile concepts to relevant, real-world scenarios.
Reflection (where applicable): Shows thoughtful engagement and personal insight.