The Definition of Done
4 hours ago
- #definition of done
- #productivity
- #software development
- Software developers often misjudge when a task is truly done, leading to incomplete deliverables.
- A task is not done if it only works on the developer's machine, lacks testing or feedback, has an unmerged PR, isn't in production, depends on other work, or isn't accessible to users.
- The proper definition of done includes functioning on all supported devices, multiple testing and feedback rounds, merged PRs, completed team work, and live availability in production.
- AI cannot determine when something is done; developers must decide, and relying on AI for this risks job relevance.
- Done is defined by creating real-world value, not just by finishing work efforts.