What is Sprint?
TL;DR
A sprint is a fixed time period (usually 1-4 weeks) during which a development team works to complete a set amount of work.
Example
Sprint lifecycle:
Day 1: Sprint Planning Team selects work from backlog. "This sprint we'll build: user login, password reset, profile page."
Days 2-9: Development Daily standups (15 min). Team works on committed items. No new work added mid-sprint.
Day 10: Sprint Review Demo completed work to stakeholders. Get feedback.
Day 10: Retrospective Team discusses: What went well? What to improve?
Repeat. New sprint starts next day.
Sprint board example:
| To Do | In Progress | Review | Done |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profile page | Password reset | Login | - |
Explanation
Sprint Best Practices
Fixed length: Don't change sprint duration mid-project. Consistency helps planning.
Sustainable pace: Don't overcommit. Better to finish everything than half-complete many things.
No scope changes: Once sprint starts, the work is locked. Changes wait for next sprint.
Definition of Done: Clear criteria for when something is "done" (tested, reviewed, deployed).
Sprint Length
1 week: High uncertainty, fast feedback needed 2 weeks: Most common, balanced 3-4 weeks: Complex features, less frequent releases
Longer sprints = more work per sprint, but slower feedback loops.
Why It Matters
For Business Owners
Sprints create rhythm. You know when to expect updates, demos, and opportunities for feedback.
Sprints limit risk. If a sprint goes badly, you've lost 2 weeks, not 6 months. Adjust and continue.
Sprints force prioritization. Limited time means choosing what matters most. Keeps focus on high-value work.
Sprints prevent feature creep. "Just add one more thing" can't happen mid-sprint. Protects the team's focus.
What to Expect as a Stakeholder
- Sprint planning: Share priorities
- During sprint: Available for questions
- Sprint review: Attend demos, give feedback
- Between sprints: Prioritize backlog
Need help with your digital project?
We build websites, apps, and digital solutions for businesses.
Get in touch