Why is it important for a Development Team to have a Definition of Done?

Having a Definition of Done is crucial for a Development Team as it ensures the quality and completeness of the product increment. This shared understanding establishes clear criteria that a product increment must meet before it can be deemed complete. By adhering to these criteria, the Development Team can consistently deliver high-quality work that fulfills the expectations set forth at the start of the project. The Definition of Done encompasses various aspects such as code review, testing, documentation, and acceptance criteria, which collectively define what it means for work to be finished. This not only helps in maintaining a consistent standard of quality but also fosters accountability within the team, ensuring that all aspects of the work are considered before declaring an increment complete. This commitment to quality ultimately leads to greater stakeholder satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of rework or defects in later stages of development.