What is the purpose of the Definition of Done in Scrum?

The Definition of Done serves as a crucial agreement among the Scrum Team that clarifies the criteria necessary for a product increment to be considered complete. This reference is not just a checklist but embodies quality standards and acceptance criteria that must be met before work can be deemed finished.

By establishing a clear Definition of Done, teams prevent misunderstandings about when a feature or increment is actually complete, thereby ensuring that all work done adheres to the same standards. This leads to higher quality products as it encourages developers to consistently meet the agreed-upon objectives for each increment. Additionally, it aids in transparency and builds trust among team members and stakeholders regarding the quality and readiness of the product for release.

In summary, the Definition of Done is essential for maintaining clarity on completion and ensuring that the product increment meets the team's and stakeholders' expectations for quality and functionality.