The Double-Edged Sword of the Definition of Ready
In the pursuit of efficient and effective product development, teams often employ various tactics to streamline their processes. One such approach is the definition of ready (DoR), a concept that has both its proponents and detractors. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the definition of ready, its benefits and drawbacks, and whether it’s a suitable strategy for your team.
What is the Definition of Ready?
The definition of ready is a set of criteria that determines whether a work item is prepared enough for the development team to start working on it. It serves as a gatekeeper, ensuring that only well-groomed and refined tasks are taken on by the team. This approach aims to minimize misunderstandings, rework, and blockers, ultimately leading to faster cycle times and more accurate estimates.
Benefits of the Definition of Ready
Proponents of the definition of ready argue that it offers several advantages:
- Less Rework: By double-checking the readiness of each task, teams can avoid costly rework caused by misunderstandings or missing requirements.
- Faster Cycle Time: Well-groomed tasks enable teams to work more efficiently, reducing the time from starting a task to meeting the definition of done.
- More Accurate Estimates: The definition of ready provides a common standard for tasks, making it easier to estimate the effort required for each one.
Potential Pitfalls
However, critics of the definition of ready point out several potential pitfalls:
- Mini Waterfall: A robust definition of ready can create a mini-waterfall development process, where refinement and development phases are separated. This can slow down the team and hinder agility.
- Reduced Flexibility: The definition of ready can make it harder for teams to adapt to changing circumstances or experiment with new ideas.
Should You Use the Definition of Ready?
Whether or not to use the definition of ready depends on your team’s specific needs and goals. If you’re a feature factory focused on delivering tickets at a high rate, the definition of ready might be beneficial. However, if you’re an outcome-focused product team that values agility and flexibility, you might find that the definition of ready hinders your progress.
Embracing the Messiness of Product Development
Product development is inherently messy and unpredictable. Rather than trying to control the chaos with rigid processes, teams should focus on embracing the uncertainty and adapting to changing circumstances. By prioritizing individuals and interactions over processes and tools, teams can create a more agile and responsive development environment.
Ultimately, the definition of ready is a double-edged sword. While it offers benefits in terms of efficiency and accuracy, it also risks stifling creativity and agility. As with any development strategy, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consider what works best for your team’s unique needs and goals.