Backlog
A backlog is a list of tasks, ideas, requirements, or features that need to be completed within a project or product.
Simply put:
a queue of tasks for the future
Where a backlog is used
- IT and development
- Agile and Scrum
- product management
- marketing
- project management
What can be included in a backlog
- new product features
- bugs and fixes
- ideas for improvements
- technical tasks
- marketing activities
- user requests
Main purpose of a backlog
to systematize and prioritize the team’s work.
Types of backlogs
- Product Backlog
The overall list of tasks and requirements for the product. - Sprint Backlog
Tasks selected for the current sprint. - Technical Backlog
Technical improvements and infrastructure tasks.
How a backlog works
- The team collects tasks
- Evaluates priorities
- Distributes tasks across sprints or phases
- Gradually implements them
Who manages the backlog
Typically:
- Product Manager
- Product Owner
- Project Manager
- Scrum Master together with the team
Example
A mobile app’s backlog might include:
- a new notification system
- bug fixes
- dark mode
- onboarding improvements
All these tasks are waiting to be implemented.
Why a backlog is important
It helps to:
- avoid losing ideas and tasks
- manage priorities
- plan product development
- increase team workflow transparency
A good backlog should be
- up to date
- prioritized
- clear
- regularly updated
Popular tools for managing a backlog
- Jira
- Trello
- Asana
- Notion
- ClickUp
Key takeaway
A backlog is a structured list of tasks and ideas that helps a team plan and develop a product or project.
