The Real Definition of Done
From Rethink Your Understanding by Phil Clark
May 1, 2026 · 14 min · Season 3 · Episode 61
About this episode
This episode discusses a shift in how software teams define completion, emphasizing customer impact over mere delivery activities.
This episode explores a needed shift in how software teams define when work is actually complete. Traditionally, “the definition of done” has meant that a feature was coded, tested, and released to production . The AI hosts discuss my perspective that this definition is incomplete because it focuses on delivery activity rather than customer or business impact . A more mature approach starts with anticipated outcomes and closes the loop after delivery to understand whether the work achieved its intended result . By connecting workflow with realization, organizations can move beyond output and turn delivery into learning, evidence, and strategic value. Link to the article : The Real Definition of Done , originally published April 14, 2026. Connect with me on LinkedIn
People in this episode
Host: Phil Clark
Topics covered
- software development
- definition of done
- customer impact
- business outcomes
- workflow
- strategic value
Keywords
- definition of done
- software teams
- customer impact
- business outcomes
- workflow
- strategic value
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: The Real Definition of Done
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