Definition
The Definition of Ready (DoR) is a set of criteria that a backlog item must meet before it can be accepted into a sprint or iteration for development. It ensures that a work item is sufficiently defined, understood, and feasible for the team to begin working on it without significant ambiguity or blockers. In practice, the team collectively agrees on these criteria, often documenting them in a checklist or team charter, to streamline the workflow and prevent rework. Adhering to the DoR significantly reduces the risk of scope creep, misinterpretation, and wasted effort by ensuring clarity upfront. For instance, a user story might be considered 'ready' when it includes clear acceptance criteria, has been estimated, and dependencies are identified and addressed. It's important not to confuse the DoR with the Definition of Done (DoD), which outlines the criteria for completing a work item. This concept is frequently assessed on the PMI-ACP, CAPM, and PMP examinations.