Acceptance criteria in Agile refer to a set of predefined requirements or conditions that must be met for a user story to be considered complete1. They serve as a way to define the scope and specific expectations for the work to be done, ensuring that the deliverables meet the needs and expectations of the stakeholders. Acceptance criteria help to align the understanding between the development team and the customer or product owner, providing clarity on what needs to be accomplished.
Acceptance criteria are sometimes referred to as the “definition of done” because they establish the criteria that developers must fulfill to consider the user story finished1. These criteria are typically written from the user’s perspective and focus on the intended functionality and behavior of the product. They help guide the development process and act as a basis for acceptance testing to verify that the delivered work meets the specified requirements.
By clearly articulating the conditions that must be met for a user story to be accepted, acceptance criteria support effective communication, collaboration, and shared understanding among team members. They contribute to the iterative and incremental nature of Agile development, allowing for feedback and adjustments as the product evolves.
It is important to note that acceptance criteria can vary based on the nature of the project and the organization’s specific needs. They should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.
Overall, AcceptanceCriteria play a vital role in Agile development by providing a shared understanding of what constitutes a complete and satisfactory deliverable.
