How do you incorporate the definition of done into your test planning and execution?

Incorporating the Definition of Done (DoD) into test planning starts with making sure all the DoD criteria are clearly understood by the team. When I plan test activities, I align the tests with the DoD to ensure that everything—from functionality and performance to documentation and security checks—is covered. This means defining test cases that address each aspect of the DoD, ensuring we meet the quality standards required to call a user story "done."

Defining the DoD (Definition of Done) criteria is the first step I take when incorporating it into test planning and execution. I make sure the entire team agrees on what “done” looks like, from functional requirements to non-functional aspects like performance and security. This ensures everyone, including testers, knows exactly what to validate. By having clear DoD criteria, I can structure my test plans to cover all necessary checks, from unit tests to user acceptance testing. This alignment helps avoid gaps and ensures we deliver a complete, high-quality product.

When planning test activities with the Definition of Done (DoD) in mind, I map out each testing phase based on the agreed criteria. This includes identifying which tests need to be performed at each stage—whether it's functional testing, integration testing, or final acceptance tests. I prioritize tasks to ensure critical DoD elements are covered first, aligning test activities with the development timeline. By carefully planning, I can ensure that testing is thorough, efficient, and supports the team's ability to meet the DoD requirements, keeping quality at the forefront of the process.

When executing test activities based on the Definition of Done (DoD), I ensure each test aligns with the established criteria. I systematically run through the planned test cases, covering both functional and non-functional requirements. As I execute tests, I document results in real time, keeping the team informed of any issues or gaps in meeting the DoD. This thorough execution ensures that every requirement is validated before considering a user story complete. By sticking to the DoD during testing, we can confidently deliver a product that meets expectations and is truly “done.”

Verifying the Definition of Done (DoD) criteria is a crucial step in ensuring that every user story is fully completed before moving forward. After executing tests, I cross-check the results against the DoD to confirm that all functional and non-functional requirements have been met. This includes verifying that code is properly tested, documentation is updated, and any other agreed-upon conditions are satisfied. By carefully reviewing each criterion, I ensure there are no overlooked details, helping the team confidently close the story with the assurance that it's ready for release.

One important thing I’ve learned is to continuously review and update the DoD as the project evolves. Testing teams should have input on the DoD to ensure it remains realistic and achievable. Also, ensure that automated tests are aligned with the DoD to maintain quality without extra manual effort. This approach makes sure that meeting the DoD isn’t just a checklist but a core part of the testing process.