completion criterion

Metric Definition

Defining a completion criterion requires clear, quantifiable statements or observable states that permit objective verification. For a unit of work, this might involve the delivery of specific files, the successful execution of all defined test cases, or integration into a larger system without reported errors. The measurement of a completion criterion is binary, a simple pass or fail, which minimizes subjective interpretation and enables efficient tracking.

It distinguishes finished work from work that is merely almost done, providing a clear reference point for all involved parties.

Boundary Condition

The scope of a completion criterion applies solely to the specific unit of work it defines and does not extend to future phases or unrelated workstreams. Its application stops when the agreed-upon conditions are met, even if subsequent work identifies new requirements or improvements for the same item. The criterion for completion is typically established at the outset of an arrangement or task, ensuring alignment among all parties regarding what “done” means.

Any alteration to a completion criterion during a work cycle constitutes a change in the terms of the original arrangement. Such a change often necessitates a recalculation of the cost or an adjustment to the timeline for the work.

Capacity Cost

Ambiguous or undefined completion criteria impose a direct capacity cost on a founder. This cost arises from recurring uncertainty about whether an item is truly finished, leading to redundant checks, rework, or a lingering mental load that prevents full reallocation of attention. The absence of a precise completion criterion hinders clear delegation, as an operator cannot independently verify their own success, requiring extended founder oversight.