What’s Done is Done: the importance of Done

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Earlier I published an article about the Definition of Done (DoD), a tool that assists in ensuring product/feature completion to a high standard of quality. It includes specific, measurable, and attainable criteria based on project needs and goals. One of the guiding principles of Scrum is “getting things done.” There are several reasons why it is critical to complete tasks in Scrum.

Why is Done important?

One of the primary benefits is that it allows the team to deliver working increments to the customer on time.

Another reason why getting things done in Scrum is important is that it helps to keep the team focused and motivated. When a team completes all of the work assigned to them during a Sprint, it means they are ready to move on to new tasks and challenges. This keeps the team engaged and motivated, which can lead to higher productivity and better results.

What's Done is Done: the importance of Done
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Handy tips

Here are some handy tips for Scrum teams to help get things done:

  • Prioritize the tasks that must be completed
    • Prioritize the most important tasks first, so that the team can deliver value to the end user as soon as possible.
  • Divide the work into smaller chunks
    • Rather than working on large, complex tasks, divide them into smaller, more manageable chunks. This allows the team to concentrate on completing specific pieces of work rather than becoming bogged down by the larger task.
  • Set clear and realistic goals
    • Make sure the team understands what they are working on and what is expected of them. This helps the team stay focused and motivated.
  • Encourage teamwork and communication
    • Ascertain that the team is cooperating and communicating effectively. This can assist in identifying problems and roadblocks early on, allowing them to be resolved quickly.
  • Stress the significance of quality
    • Ensure that the team is focused on delivering high-quality work rather than simply completing tasks as quickly as possible. This ensures that the team is providing value to the customer.
  • Use metrics to track progress
    • Use metrics such as story points completed, sprint backlog burn-down, and team velocity to monitor the team’s performance. This allows the team to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.

Overall, getting things done in Scrum is critical to the project’s success. Scrum Teams can improve their productivity, increase their chances of delivering working software, and stay motivated to achieve their goals by following these tips.

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