Understanding Scrum’s Definition of Done

The Definition of Done (DoD) in Scrum is a clear and concise list of criteria that a product increment must meet to be considered complete. It ensures that the increment is of high quality and ready for release.

Exam Question

Scrum’s Definition of Done mandates:
(choose the best answer)
A. Validated by the Product Owner.
B. Approved by UX.
C. Released to Customers.
D. Releasable.

Correct Answer

D. Releasable.

Explanation

Correct Answer

D. Releasable:
The Definition of Done ensures that the product increment is in a state that could be released to customers, even if the actual release decision is deferred to a later point. This means that all the necessary work (such as coding, testing, documentation, and integration) is completed to a standard that the product could be deployed if the Product Owner decides to do so.

Why the Other Options Are Less Effective

A. Validated by the Product Owner:
While the Product Owner’s validation is important, it is part of the acceptance of the work done in a Sprint, not a direct criterion of the Definition of Done. The DoD focuses on the overall readiness for release, not just validation by a single role.

B. Approved by UX:
UX approval may be a component of the overall Definition of Done, but it is not the sole criterion. The Definition of Done encompasses a broader range of quality checks and readiness criteria.

C. Released to Customers:
The Definition of Done ensures the increment is releasable, but it does not mandate that it must be released to customers immediately. The actual release decision can be made based on various factors, including business strategy and timing.

Importance of the Definition of Done

• Quality Assurance: Ensures that the product increment meets all necessary quality standards and is free from defects.
• Transparency: Provides a clear and shared understanding of what “done” means, ensuring consistency and alignment across the team.
• Incremental Progress: Supports the Scrum principle of delivering potentially shippable product increments at the end of each Sprint.

Effective Practices for Defining the Definition of Done

• Collaborative Creation: The Definition of Done should be collaboratively defined by the Scrum Team, including Developers, the Product Owner, and the Scrum Master.
• Clear Criteria: The criteria should be clear, measurable, and actionable to avoid ambiguity and ensure that everyone understands what is required.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update the Definition of Done to incorporate lessons learned and changes in standards or technology.

Relevance to the PSU I Exam

Understanding the Definition of Done and its importance in Scrum is crucial for the PSU I exam. It demonstrates knowledge of ensuring product quality and readiness for release, which is fundamental to effective Scrum practices.

Key Takeaways

• The Definition of Done mandates that a product increment must be releasable.
• It ensures the product meets all necessary quality standards and is ready for potential deployment.
• Collaborative creation, clear criteria, and continuous improvement are key to an effective Definition of Done.

Conclusion

In Scrum, the Definition of Done ensures that a product increment is releasable, meeting all necessary quality standards and being ready for potential deployment. This clarity helps maintain high product quality and supports the iterative and incremental delivery approach of Scrum. For more information on preparing for the PSU I exam, visit our Professional Scrum with UX PSU I™ Exam Prep.