A backlog item is a single unit of work within a backlog.
A backlog item may describe a requirement, user story, feature, defect, technical task, or improvement. Moreover, it defines work that supports a product or project goal.
Teams order backlog items by value, urgency, risk, and dependencies. Therefore, high-priority items appear near the top of the backlog. Teams also refine these items in greater detail. In contrast, lower-priority items may remain less detailed.
A clear backlog item includes a short description and an expected outcome. In addition, it may include acceptance criteria, estimates, dependencies, and supporting models.
Large backlog items may require further division. As a result, teams can plan, estimate, implement, and test each item more easily.
Well-defined backlog items improve planning, communication, transparency, and delivery.
« Back to Glossary Index