Product Backlog Item

Definition of Product Backlog Item

A Product Backlog Item is a single item in the product backlog representing work to be performed (i.e., user story, bug, task).

Pronunciation Spelling

proh-dukt bak-lawg ahy-tuhm

Example Sentence

We discussed several Product Backlog items in today’s Sprint Planning meeting.

Significance

Agile practitioners should understand “Product Backlog Item” as it represents a single requirement or work item within the Product Backlog. Familiarity with this term is vital as it delineates the granular units of work, such as user stories, features, enhancements, or tasks, essential for the product’s development. Comprehending Product Backlog Items aids in effective backlog management, prioritization, and estimation, fostering clear communication among team members and stakeholders regarding the specific functionalities or deliverables required for the product.

Additional Resources

• Scrum Guide
• 3 Cs of User Stories: An Open Secret
• Spikes in Agile: Uncertainty’s Archnemesis
• Types of Spikes in Agile: Excessive Organization
• Bug vs. Defect
• Bug vs Feature: An Argument for the Pedantic
• User Stories, Epics and Themes
• Fifty Quick Ideas To Improve Your User Stories
• User Stories Applied: For Agile Software Development
• Should a Product Owner Write the Backlog? (MGS Newsletter from 1013/22. Back issues available via Agile Mentors).
• Scrum Shortcuts Without Cutting Corners: Agile Tactics, Tools & Tips