Definition of Done in Software Development

The definition of done (DoD) is a crucial concept in agile software development. We can use this concept when we meet the user criteria for any task that is considered to be completed. It provides clarity on when work is finished by the development team.

Definition of Done in Software Development

Definition of done in Agile

The definition of done is an agile concept that establishes a shared vision between the development team and the customer or product owner. The definition of done in agile is an agreement across product teams on the set of requirements that must be met in order to deem backlog items genuinely done. Product teams utilize a definition of done to ensure that the activities they conduct for each backlog item are consistent.

Importance and Purpose of the Definition of Done:

• It provides clear information to all team members in the project about what is “done”.
• The definition of done maintains quality standards and meets the requirements of the client by reducing defects and incomplete work.
• It establishes a common understanding among the team members who are working on the project about the completion criteria.
• It provides customer satisfaction by completing the work on time.

Benefits of Definition of Done in Agile:

• The definition of done can help the team be successful.
• The definition of done can also help support software teams’ objectives and key results (OKRs).
• It also helps organizations grow faster and smarter.
• It can reduce the risk of incomplete work and deliver the work on time.
• Teams can reflect on whether the Definition of Done was met and adjust it to enhance future iterations.
• It supports continuous improvement in teamwork, then reflects on whether the definition of done was met and adjusts it for future projects.
• Avoid repetitive conversations amongst your team. 

Example of Definition of Done in Agile:

For example, a user project can be considered done when we met all the acceptance criteria the owner of the project reviews and accepts our code.

The Definition of Done includes criteria such as:

• The code is written and reviewed.
• The unit tests have been created and passed.
• Integration tests were performed successfully.
• The documentation is updated.
• The user acceptance tests have passed.
• The owner of the project approves the implementation.

When is the Definition of Done created:

The Definition of Done is typically created when a new team is formed during the initial stages of a project. It evolves over time as every member of the team gains experience with the project for future references.

Who creates the Definition of Done in Scrum:

The product manager can create a checklist in collaboration with the architects, stakeholders, marketing team, design team, testing team, etc. However, the product manager is responsible for ensuring that all the items in the Definition of Done are executed, and the product manager has the responsibility for shipping the work to end users.

Definition of Done vs. Definition of Ready:

When you’re working on a project, we must be aware of these two definitions: a definition of done (DoD) and a definition of ready (DoR). The definition of ready is similar to the definition of done, having a checklist of things that should be ready before starting a project.

The main objective of a definition of ready is to avoid confusion and increase efficiency when working on initiatives. If the product team focuses too much on the direction of ready, it may delay production and lead to missed opportunities. The definition of done ensures quality and consistency, whereas the definition of ready aids with efficient work.

Conclusion:

The Definition of Done is a fundamental aspect of agile development. It promotes transparency, quality, and collaboration. It serves as a compass for the team to guide them towards consistently meeting the deadline of the project, delivering it to the clients without missing opportunities, and developing high increments for the customer.