1. Split by Value, Not by Layer

A good user story delivers a testable slice of value — not just UI, not just backend.

• Break work into vertical slices
• Deliver user-facing increments
• Prioritize learning by early feedback

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2. Make Work Visible

Visualization exposes bottlenecks, blockers, and overloaded people.

• Kanban boards with clear WIP limits
• Explicit policies on each column
• Daily focus on blocked items

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3. Frequent Refinement

Regular backlog refinement sessions keep upcoming work clear and estimate-ready.

• Refine weekly (not only before sprint planning)
• PO writes high-level, team clarifies details
• Estimate only when required

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4. Definition of Ready (DoR)

Stories entering sprint planning should meet basic readiness criteria.

• Value clear
• Acceptance criteria written
• No external dependencies unaddressed

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5. Pairing & Swarming

Two+ people collaborate to finish work faster and better.

• Use pairing for complex or risky work
• Use swarming when blockers appear
• Improves quality & cross-skilling