Definition of done: definition, example and how to measure it
A definition of done is the shared checklist every task of a kind must pass before it counts as finished. Definition, examples for software and marketing, and how to use it.
A definition of done is a short checklist that every task of one kind must pass before anyone calls it finished. It is agreed by the team once and used every time. It stops "done" meaning different things to different people.
In plain words
"It's done" can mean "I wrote a draft" or "it is checked, approved and live." A definition of done picks one meaning and writes it down.
It comes from Scrum, where a story is not done until it meets the team's definition. But it works for any repeat work: blog posts, client reports, invoices, designs.
Examples
A software team:
- Code reviewed by one other person.
- Tests pass.
- Works on mobile.
- Release notes updated.
A marketing team, for every blog post:
- Matches the brief's goal and reader.
- Proofread, with links checked.
- Meta title and description written.
- One image with alt text.
Definition of done vs acceptance criteria
The definition of done applies to every task of a kind. Acceptance criteria are extra checks for one task. A blog post must meet both: the team's list and that post's brief.
How to measure it
| Measure | How |
|---|---|
| Returns for "not done" | Work sent back for a missed item on the list |
| First-time-right | Accepted with no changes ÷ delivered |
If the same item causes most returns, make it the first line on the list.
Where M-Tracker fits
M-Tracker's standards library lets a project keep its rules, like a definition of done or a brand guide, and every review uses them. The person sees what is missing before they hand the work over. No screenshots and no activity tracking.
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