Why is it important for SAFe teams to establish a Definition of Done?

Establishing a Definition of Done is crucial for SAFe teams because it defines a clear set of criteria that must be met for work items to be considered complete. This shared understanding helps ensure consistency and quality in the delivered work, as everyone on the team knows exactly what is expected for each feature or user story to be deemed finished. By adhering to the Definition of Done, teams can improve their transparency, reduce misunderstandings, and minimize the risk of incomplete or subpar work being delivered to stakeholders.

Moreover, a well-defined Definition of Done fosters collaboration and accountability within the team, as each member is aware of their responsibilities in achieving the shared goal. This focus on quality helps in building a reliable and predictable delivery model, which is foundational to achieving the overall objectives of the SAFe framework.