Why Definition of Ready (DoR) Matters
One of the most common challenges Scrum Teams face is starting a Sprint with unclear or incomplete Product Backlog Items (PBIs). When this happens, Sprint Planning turns into a working session where the team is forced to clarify details that should have been addressed earlier. This leads to wasted time, delays, and frustration.
The Scrum Guide states:
“Product Backlog items that can be Done by the Scrum Team within one Sprint are deemed ready for selection in a Sprint Planning event.”
A Definition of Ready (DoR) helps teams ensure backlog items are clear, actionable, and refined before Sprint Planning. When PBIs meet a shared standard of readiness, teams can commit with confidence, focus on delivering value, and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth during the Sprint.
Using INVEST to Ensure PBIs Are Ready
A strong Definition of Ready aligns with the INVEST criteria, a widely used guideline for crafting high-quality User Stories. The INVEST model, created by Bill Wake, provides a framework for refining backlog items so they are well-structured, independent, and valuable.
What is INVEST?
- Independent – The backlog item should be self-contained, avoiding dependencies that could cause delays.
- Negotiable – The details should be flexible enough for meaningful discussion and collaboration.
- Valuable – The item should contribute clear business or user value.
- Estimable – The team should have enough detail to estimate the effort required.
- Small – The work should be sized appropriately to fit within a Sprint.
- Testable – The item should have clear acceptance criteria so that the team knows when it is complete.
Applying these principles ensures that PBIs are refined, actionable, and ready for Sprint Planning.
How to Incorporate Definition of Ready Into Product Backlog Refinement
1. Establish a Shared DoR Checklist
Scrum Teams should define their own Definition of Ready based on their needs. A good DoR includes criteria that align with INVEST and ensure PBIs are Sprint-ready. Key elements to include:
- Clear acceptance criteria that define when the work is complete.
- A well-defined business goal or user value.
- No unresolved dependencies that could block progress.
- Enough detail for the team to estimate effort.
- Work sized appropriately for completion within a Sprint.
2. Validate PBIs Against DoR During Product Backlog Refinement
Product Backlog Refinement should be a working session where the team collaborates to ensure upcoming PBIs meet the DoR. If an item doesn’t meet the standard, it should not move forward to Sprint Planning.
Activities in Backlog Refinement include:
- Breaking down large items into smaller, manageable work.
- Clarifying scope and expected outcomes.
- Defining acceptance criteria and test cases.
- Identifying and resolving dependencies.
- Confirming alignment with business goals and priorities.
3. Apply DoR as a Gatekeeper in Sprint Planning
Only backlog items that meet the Definition of Ready should be considered for commitment in Sprint Planning. If an item is unclear or incomplete, the team should push it back into refinement rather than risk starting the Sprint with unknowns.
This approach leads to more effective Sprint Planning and ensures the team begins work with a shared understanding of what needs to be done.
The Business Impact of a Strong Definition of Ready
A well-maintained Definition of Ready helps teams:
- Reduce time spent in Sprint Planning clarifying backlog items.
- Prevent scope creep by ensuring PBIs are well-defined.
- Improve forecasting by refining backlog items before estimating.
- Increase delivery predictability by ensuring teams start with clear work.
- Minimize delays and rework by catching unclear requirements early.
Teams that consistently apply a Definition of Ready work more efficiently, maintain focus, and deliver higher-quality results.
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