Understanding Product Backlog Items (PBI)
Introduction
Product Backlog Items (PBIs) are the foundation of a Scrum project in Easy8. They describe solutions rather than problems and represent the value that will be delivered to users. This article explains what PBIs are, how they differ from tasks, and how teams manage them effectively using boards, sticky notes, and templates.
Target Audience
User
Understanding Product Backlog Items (PBI)
Definition
A Product Backlog Item (PBI) is a description of a feature, improvement, or idea that delivers value to end-users. PBIs are collected in the product backlog and refined over time.
Key points about PBIs:
- PBIs represent solutions, not problems.
- PBIs reflect customer needs and stakeholder expectations.
- Each PBI is focused on delivering user value.
PBIs are distinct from tasks. Tasks are used to describe specific actions or technical problems, while PBIs represent what should be delivered.
PBI vs. Task
| Aspect | Product Backlog Item (PBI) | Task |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Describes a solution | Describes a problem or action |
| Goal | Deliver customer value | Complete a development step |
| Example | “Add login with Google” | “Connect to OAuth server” |
Tasks often result from breaking down PBIs during refinement or sprint planning.
How PBIs Work in Easy8
- PBIs are managed through Agile boards — especially the Backlog Board.
- Users can split a large feature into smaller PBIs to improve clarity and planning accuracy.
- PBIs can include sticky notes, which break them down into smaller visible parts.
- Sticky notes may come from predefined templates depending on the Definition of Done (DoD).
- Templates help ensure consistent structure (e.g. bug resolution steps, feature design phases).
Sticky notes and templates make PBIs more transparent and manageable during sprints.
Examples
- A feature like “Interactive price list embedded in client zone” is entered as a PBI.
- The team splits it into multiple smaller PBIs using the split function.
- Sticky notes like “Reproduce the bug” or “Assign responsibility” are added based on the template.
- These sticky notes help team members deliver the PBI during the sprint.
Conclusion
PBIs are essential to Scrum in Easy8. They define valuable outcomes, guide planning, and focus the team on delivering real solutions. By using sticky notes and templates, teams can manage PBIs with structure and agility, improving both collaboration and output.
Further Reading
- Scrum Boards: Concept and Use Cases (Explanation)
- How to Manage the Backlog Board (How-To)
- How to Create and Configure a New Sprint (How-To)
- Understanding Scrum Theory (Explanation)
- Overview of Agile and Scrum in Easy8 (Explanation)
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