Make the Backlog Explicit

Outsourcing works best when work is visible. Put everything in one backlog (bugs, features, content updates). If work lives in email and DMs, delivery will be unpredictable.

Write Tickets an External Team Can Execute

Strong tickets include context, acceptance criteria, screenshots, and environment notes. If a ticket needs product judgment, label it as "needs discovery" and timebox it.

Simple ticket template

• Goal: what outcome the user needs
• Scope: what is in and out
• Acceptance criteria: measurable checks
• Assets: designs, copy, API docs

Define Done Once

A shared definition of done prevents rework: reviewed, tested, basic accessibility checks, and clear deployment notes.

Run Short Sprints With a Predictable Rhythm

1-2 week sprints with a kickoff, mid-sprint check-in, and review/retro is usually enough to keep progress steady and communication light.

Conclusion

External teams deliver best when the system is clean: backlog hygiene, clear tickets, a definition of done, and a repeatable sprint rhythm.