Distinguishing internal and external dependencies

Not all dependencies are within the same scope of control. Internal dependencies occur inside the product team, such as a feature awaiting interface design or testing following development. These can be managed through sprint planning, shared timelines, and coordination meetings.

External dependencies, on the other hand, rely on actors or conditions outside the team’s influence. A release may depend on legal approval, a third-party vendor delivering assets, or another team finalizing an API. Because they are harder to predict, external dependencies need contingency plans and proactive communication.

Including both types of dependencies in a product specification makes planning more realistic. It signals where flexibility is needed and where coordination with external partners should start early. This awareness prevents small delays from growing into major blockers.