A documented list serves as a shared understanding among team members regarding the criteria a deliverable must meet to be considered complete. This list, typically structured as a checklist, outlines specific tasks, standards, and quality gates that must be satisfied before an item is deemed finished. For example, a development task might require passing all unit tests, undergoing code review, and having its documentation updated to be considered done.
Such a tool fosters transparency, reduces ambiguity, and improves the overall quality of the final product or service. By clearly defining expectations upfront, it minimizes rework, promotes consistency across projects, and facilitates more accurate estimations. Historically, the increasing complexity of projects and the need for better team coordination have driven the adoption of these structured lists as a best practice in various industries.
