What is definition of done in agile?

What is the Definition of Done (DoD)?

The Definition of Done (DoD) is a clear and agreed-upon checklist that outlines the criteria a product backlog item (PBI), user story, or feature must meet before it is considered "done.". In Agile methodology, DoD is an important artifact that is created.

Why is DoD Important?

• Ensures consistent quality across the project
• Helps teams understand what "done" means
• Prevents partially completed work from being released
• Enhances transparency and accountability
• Supports better sprint planning and delivery

Key Aspects of DoD

The Definition of Done applies at multiple levels:

1️⃣ DoD for a User Story (Sprint Level)

A user story is only "done" when:

• Code is written and peer-reviewed
• Unit tests are written and passed
• Functionality is integrated into the main branch
• No critical defects remain
• Product Owner approves the feature

🔹 Example:
User Story: "As a user, I want to reset my password via email."

• Backend logic implemented
• Frontend UI created and tested
• Email notifications configured
• Tested across different browsers
• Deployed to staging environment

2️⃣ DoD for a Feature (Release Level)

A feature is considered done when:

• All related user stories meet DoD
• End-to-end testing completed
• Security and performance tests passed
• Documentation updated
• Accepted by stakeholders

🔹 Example:
Feature: "Online Payment Integration"
✅ Payment gateway integrated (Stripe, PayPal)
✅ Transactions tested with real and dummy data
✅ Compliance checks completed (e.g., PCI DSS)
✅ Deployed to production

3️⃣ DoD for a Release (Project Level)

A product release is complete when:

• All features meet DoD
• Regression testing is done
• Deployment scripts are tested
• User manuals and help guides updated
• Support team trained on new features

🔹 Example:
Release: Version 2.0 of a Mobile App
✅ New UI features implemented
✅ Performance optimized
✅ Deployment to App Store and Google Play
✅ Announcement email sent to users

Benefits of a Strong Definition of Done

✔ Reduces Technical Debt – Avoids incomplete work piling up
✔ Improves Predictability – Helps teams plan better
✔ Boosts Collaboration – Aligns team expectations
✔ Enhances Product Quality – Ensures no shortcuts in delivery

Common Mistakes & Best Practices

❌ Mistakes to Avoid:

🚫 Vague DoD – "Code is done" is not enough
🚫 Skipping Testing – Leads to defects in production
🚫 Changing DoD Frequently – Inconsistency in quality

✅ Best Practices:

✔ Keep DoD clear, measurable, and achievable
✔ Involve developers, testers, and product owners in defining DoD
✔ Continuously review and improve DoD based on retrospectives

A well-defined Definition of Done ensures high-quality deliverables, keeps the team aligned, and improves Agile processes. 🚀

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