Definition of Done

The Definition of Done

The definition of done is about creating a shared vision of what "done" looks like when the project is finished.

• It must be frequently revisited and consistently maintained.
• Misinterpretation can occur when someone describes something, as they may change their mind later.
• People might describe something differently than what they actually want.
• There can be a mismatch between what is envisioned and what is actually required.
• Developers or team members may interpret requirements differently from the product owner’s expectations.
• Having a well-defined definition of done helps align expectations and reduces surprises.
• The final product should meet expectations without any unexpected elements.
• A poor definition of done results in surprises, which indicate misalignment.
• Definition of done should be applied to:
  • User stories – Ensuring clarity before development.
  • Software releases – Deliverables should meet expectations.
  • Project deliverables – Ensuring the final product aligns with requirements.

By maintaining a strong definition of done, projects can be delivered successfully without confusion or unexpected outcomes.