Definition of done
also known as DoD
A shared, explicit checklist of what must be true for a deliverable or task to count as complete - removing ambiguity over 'finished'.
For example, 'done' for a blog post means written, edited, SEO-checked, approved and scheduled - not just drafted. With the criteria agreed up front, nobody argues later about whether the work is actually finished.
Why it matters to agencies: a clear definition of done is what makes acceptance, sign-off and payment clean rather than contested. Without it, 'finished' is subjective, revisions multiply, and scope quietly creeps - which is why agreeing it up front protects both quality and margin.
A good definition of done
- Specific, testable criteria
- The format and delivery method
- The number of revision rounds included
- Who signs off
- How acceptance is recorded
What is a definition of done?
A shared, explicit checklist of what must be true for a deliverable or task to count as complete - removing ambiguity over 'finished'.
Why is a definition of done useful?
It removes ambiguity over 'finished', so acceptance, sign-off and payment are clean and revisions do not spiral.
Who sets the definition of done?
The agency and client agree it up front, ideally in the scope or brief, so expectations match before work starts.
How does definition of done relate to acceptance criteria?
They are closely linked - acceptance criteria are the conditions a deliverable must meet, and the definition of done collects them into a clear bar for 'complete'.