Definition
The term “backlog” comes from English and means something like “arrears, backlog” or as a verb “to set something aside”.
In a business context, this term defines a collection of tasks and items that need to be processed or completed. These are referred to as “backlog items”. These items usually have a detailed description, possibly an effort estimation, and varying levels of priority. The higher the priority, the more likely it is that the backlog item will be processed or completed.
Types of Backlogs
These are usually divided into two types of backlogs: Product Backlog and Sprint Backlog.
Product Backlog
The Product Backlog is a collection of all tasks, requirements, features, etc. that still need to be completed. The items are categorized according to the following properties:
- Priority
- Detailed description
- Effort estimation
- Evaluation and customer value
Sprint Backlog
Based on the previously defined properties, individual backlog items are selected from the Product Backlog. These are then moved to the Sprint Backlog. There, the individual items are further broken down into tasks that need to be completed. Once all tasks have been completed, the item is considered done.
A so-called Scrum board can be used to display the items clearly.