Understanding the Definition of Ready

The Definition of Ready (DoR) is a complementary practice in Scrum that helps ensure Product Backlog items are well-prepared before they are taken into a Sprint. This ensures that the Scrum Team can work on these items efficiently and effectively without unnecessary delays or misunderstandings.

Exam Question

The Definition of Ready is a complementary practice that a Scrum Team can use to:
(choose the best answer)
A. Create a list defining the attributes a stakeholder must include to request a Product Backlog item to be added to the Sprint.
B. Create the definition of what is required for a Sprint Backlog item to be released.
C. Create a process for Developers to follow to create Product Backlog items for the Product Owner.
D. Create boundaries around how to refine a Product Backlog item.

Correct Answer

D. Create boundaries around how to refine a Product Backlog item.

Explanation

Correct Answer

D. Create boundaries around how to refine a Product Backlog item:
The Definition of Ready helps the Scrum Team set criteria that a Product Backlog item must meet before it is considered “ready” to be pulled into a Sprint. This involves ensuring that the item is well-understood, small enough to be completed within a Sprint, and has clear acceptance criteria. By defining these boundaries, the team ensures that all necessary details are in place for efficient and effective development.

Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate

A. Create a list defining the attributes a stakeholder must include to request a Product Backlog item to be added to the Sprint:
While stakeholders may need to provide certain information for new requests, the DoR focuses more on internal team criteria for readiness rather than stakeholder requirements.

B. Create the definition of what is required for a Sprint Backlog item to be released:
This describes the Definition of Done (DoD), which specifies what is required for a Product Backlog item to be considered complete and ready for release, not the Definition of Ready.

C. Create a process for Developers to follow to create Product Backlog items for the Product Owner:
Developers may contribute to refining Product Backlog items, but the DoR is primarily about ensuring items meet specific criteria before being worked on, not creating them.

Relevance to the PSPBM Skills Exam

Understanding the Definition of Ready and its purpose is crucial for the PSPBM Skills exam. It demonstrates the ability to prepare and refine Product Backlog items effectively, ensuring the team can work efficiently during Sprints.

Key Takeaways

• The Definition of Ready sets criteria for when a Product Backlog item is ready to be worked on.
• It helps ensure items are well-prepared, understood, and manageable within a Sprint.
• Effective use of the DoR contributes to smoother and more efficient Sprint execution.

Conclusion

The Definition of Ready is a key practice in Scrum that helps ensure Product Backlog items are adequately prepared before being included in a Sprint. This practice enhances the team’s efficiency and effectiveness by setting clear criteria for item readiness. For more information on preparing for the PSPBM Skills exam, visit our Professional Scrum Product Backlog Management Skills PSPBM™ Exam Prep.