How To Create A Feature In Azure Devops

In this article, I’m going to show you exactly how to create and manage Features in Azure DevOps. Whether you’re a Product Owner or a Scrum Master, this article is designed to help you master the “Feature” work item.

How To Create A Feature In Azure Devops

In the Azure DevOps hierarchy, a Feature is the bridge between the high-level vision (Epics) and the tactical execution (User Stories). Without Features, your backlog becomes a “flat list” of hundreds of items, making it impossible for stakeholders to see the “big picture.”

The Standard Azure DevOps Hierarchy

Step 1: Navigating to the Features Backlog

Before you can create a Feature, you need to be in the right place. Azure DevOps provides multiple views, but the Backlogs view is the most efficient for building a roadmap.

1. Open your Project: Log into your Azure DevOps organization (e.g., dev.azure.com/YourCompany).
2. Select Boards: On the left-hand sidebar, click on Boards and then select Backlogs.
3. Choose the Correct Level: In the top-right corner of the backlog view, you’ll see a toggle. Ensure Features is selected. If you only see “Stories” or “Backlog items,” click the selector and choose Features. Check out the screenshot below for your reference.

Pro-Tip: If “Features” doesn’t appear in the list, you may need to enable the backlog level in your Team Settings. Go to Project Settings > Team Configuration > Backlogs and ensure the checkbox for “Features” is checked.

Step 2: Creating Your First Feature

Now that you’re on the Features backlog, let’s create one. I’ll use a standard USA-specific naming convention (e.g., “Customer Loyalty Rewards Integration”) to illustrate what a professional entry looks like.

Method A: The Quick Add

At the top of the Features backlog, look for the + New Work Item button.

• Type your title: Mobile App Biometric Authentication.
• Click Add to top or Add to bot