At Visual Labs, we leverage Azure DevOps, a powerhouse tool in software development and project management. It empowers teams to efficiently manage their work from development to release. One critical element that can significantly influence project success is the structure of the backlog. A well-organized backlog not only ensures task and requirement transparency but also helps teams set priorities, respond effectively to changes, and closely monitor project progress.

In our upcoming blog series, we will showcase the backlog structures we use, highlight the differences between them, and discuss the typical work items in these backlogs.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into how we create and efficiently manage an Azure DevOps backlog. We’ll explore practices and tips to help teams maximize their backlog’s potential. We’ll cover how to handle requirements and tasks, and how to ensure the backlog reflects the current goals and challenges of the project. Join us to discover how we enhance project management efficiency with Azure DevOps!

At Visual Labs, we distinguish between two different backlog levels:

1. Delivery Backlog:

This type of backlog contains tasks related to project or product development. It includes software development, implementing new features, bug fixes, user stories related to customer needs, and any other activities that directly impact the product or project’s output. The goal is to support the continuous development and delivery of the product or service. Tasks in this backlog typically have higher priority as they directly contribute to customer value.

2. Admin Backlog:

The admin backlog encompasses tasks related to the project’s or team’s administrative, organizational, or internal operations. This includes updating internal documentation, ensuring regulatory compliance, training team members, or any activities that are not directly linked to product or service delivery but are essential for smooth operation. While these tasks might be less urgent or critical from a product perspective, they are vital for maintaining team efficiency and seamless project execution.

Summary:

The delivery backlog focuses on product development and delivery, while the admin backlog handles internal operations and administrative activities. Both are crucial for successful project management and teamwork but concentrate on different aspects.