Definition of Ready (DoR) Guide

The Definition of Ready (DoR) is a crucial concept in Scrum that relates to the Product Backlog Management.

What is Definition of Ready?
DoR is a shared understanding amongst the Scrum Team about what it means for a product backlog item to be ready for development. It involves predefined criteria that must be met before any item is considered ready for inclusion in a Sprint.

Why is it Important?
The DoR helps to set a clear expectation, improve collaboration and efficiency, and reduce the chance of unexpected obstacles during the Sprint by making sure everyone on the team has a shared understanding of what 'ready' means.

How It Works?
The Scrum Team works together to define the criteria for what it takes for the Product Backlog Item (PBI) to be considered ready. This often includes requirements such as clear acceptance criteria, estimated size or effort, or dependencies identified. Each PBI must meet these criteria before it can be selected for a Sprint.

Exam tips - Answering Questions on DoR
Understanding the DoR thoroughly will help candidates answer examination questions effectively. Be clear about what constitutes an item’s readiness, the team’s role in establishing the DoR, and how it impacts the workflow. Remember, the DoR is not a mandate from the Product Owner but a shared agreement within the team. Questions are likely to focus on these areas.

Lastly, it is not about ensuring that everything is perfect before starting but about ensuring enough understanding to undertake the work confidently and successfully.