What is a Backlog? Definition and meaning
The term “backlog” comes from English and means something like “arrears, backlog” or, as a verb, “to set something aside”.
In a business sense, this term defines a collection of tasks and items that need to be worked through or delivered. These are referred to as “backlog items”. These items usually have a precise description, possibly an effort estimate and varying levels of priority. The higher the priority, the more likely it is that the backlog item will be worked on or delivered.
Types of Backlogs
These are usually divided into two types of backlog: the product backlog and the sprint backlog.
Product Backlog
The product backlog is a collection of all the tasks, requirements, features and so on that still need to be done. The items are categorised according to the following properties:
- Priority
- Detailed description
- Effort estimate
- Evaluation and customer value
Sprint Backlog
Based on the previously defined properties, individual backlog items are now selected from the product backlog. These are then moved into the sprint backlog. There, the individual items are broken down once more into tasks that need to be worked through. Once all tasks have been delivered, the item is considered done.
With the help of a so-called Scrum board, the items can be displayed clearly.