What does a shared understanding of the definition of "Done" promote within a Scrum Team?

A shared understanding of the definition of "Done" is fundamental to the Scrum framework, as it establishes a clear and consistent standard for what it means for work to be complete. This understanding fosters transparency within the team, ensuring that all members are on the same page regarding the criteria that must be met for a Product Increment to be considered finished.

When every team member understands and agrees on the definition of "Done," it helps set clear expectations about the quality and level of completion required for work items. This transparency allows the team to effectively measure work completion, as the criteria are well-defined and universally acknowledged among the team members. Stakeholders can also have greater confidence in the progress being reported because they can see that the team adheres to the same standards when reporting on what is complete.

This understanding does not inherently lead to increased efficiency or involve changes to the number of Scrum ceremonies. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of clarity and shared knowledge within the team, which ultimately supports better communication and a more cohesive working environment.