Who is responsible for setting the Definition of "Done"?

The Development Team is responsible for setting the Definition of "Done." This is crucial because the Definition of "Done" outlines the criteria that must be met for a product increment to be considered complete. It ensures that everyone understands what is expected in terms of quality and functionality before work is deemed finished.

The Definition of "Done" is a collaborative agreement within the Development Team, reflecting their ability, the type of work being produced, and the standards of quality they uphold. It incorporates all aspects such as coding standards, testing requirements, documentation, and any other necessary completion criteria that the team deems important for their work.

By being in control of this definition, the Development Team maintains transparency and accountability for their progress and the quality of the work completed. It also safeguards against misunderstandings later in the development process, establishing a clear guideline that serves both the team and stakeholders.

Although the Product Owner has an important role in the Scrum process, especially concerning the prioritization of work, the team dynamics and technical aspects of what it means for their work to be “done” fall solely within the Development Team's responsibilities.