FAQs
What is the difference between Definition of Done and acceptance criteria?
Although they may sound similar, there are some key differences between the two.
A DoD is a shared checklist that applies to all product backlog items, setting the standard for when work is complete across an agile team. It ensures the product increment meets the quality standards specified and is useful and ready for future release.
Creating a DoD is a collaborative process that can involve the entire team and sometimes even multiple teams across the business.
On the other hand, acceptance criteria are specific conditions for a single user story or feature. Its purpose is to identify whether the product increment fulfils the specific requirements of the product backlog item. They are normally the product owner’s responsibility but can also be delegated to developers.
Is a Definition of Done always needed?
A DoD is not always essential for every project, but it is crucial in agile methodologies. Without it, teams risk misunderstandings due to lack of clarity, inconsistent quality, and unfinished work being marked as complete.
A clear and transparent DoD ensures teams are aligned and accountable, creating a shared understanding of when work is truly finished and reducing the chance of rework later.
What happens if DoD is weak?
A weak or unclear Definition of Done creates confusion and inconsistency. Without clear criteria, agile teams may:
Deliver features with poor or inconsistent quality
Accumulate technical debt that slows future progress and releases
Spend more time on rework and bug fixing
Lose trust with stakeholders and users when expectations aren’t met
Mark incomplete work as finished
In agile methodology, a weak DoD leaves teams in the dark, undermining accountability and making it harder to deliver reliable, valuable increments.