The Definition of Ready (DoR) is a team’s checklist that ensures a user-centric requirement contains all necessary information before work begins. It establishes clear entry criteria for backlog items, reducing uncertainty and improving workflow efficiency.
Key Aspects of the Definition of Ready
- Ensures Work is Actionable – User stories must be clear, testable, and well-defined.
- Reduces Ambiguity – Ensures all required details are available before work starts.
- Improves Sprint Planning & Efficiency – Prevents disruptions due to missing information.
- Supports Agile & Scrum Teams – Used in backlog refinement and sprint planning.
Example Definition of Ready Criteria
| Category | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Clarity | User story is well-defined and understandable. |
| Acceptance Criteria | Clear conditions define when the story is considered complete. |
| Dependencies | All external dependencies are identified and resolved. |
| Testability | The story includes test cases or validation methods. |
| Estimate Provided | The team has sized the work using story points or other estimation techniques. |
Example Scenarios
Software Development
Before a user story enters a sprint, it must meet the DoR, ensuring it has detailed requirements, acceptance criteria, and UI/UX designs.
Marketing Campaign
A content creation task is considered ready when target audience details, messaging guidelines, and approval workflows are clearly defined.
Product Manufacturing
A new production batch is considered ready when design specifications, raw materials, and production schedules are confirmed.
Why the Definition of Ready Matters
- Prevents Sprint Disruptions – Reduces stalled work due to missing details.
- Improves Team Efficiency – Ensures work can begin immediately without delays.
- Enhances Collaboration – Aligns business, development, and testing teams on requirements.
- Strengthens Backlog Quality – Helps refine backlog items before sprint planning.
See also: Definition of Done (DoD), Backlog Refinement, Sprint Planning, Acceptance Criteria.