Definition
A user storyA small, concise statement of functionality or quality needed to deliver value to a specific stakeholder. is a brief and concise description of a functionality or qualityThe degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfills needs. of a product or a service. It is informative and is written in spoken language.
How many times did we hear the client say: you implemented what was written, but this is not what I wanted? UserSee end user. stories focus on the value for the business. They invite the exploration of requirements by encouraging further discussions with stakeholders.
A user storyA small, concise statement of functionality or quality needed to deliver value to a specific stakeholder. is typically a sentence or two, each one containing 10 to 15 words, describing the need(s) of a userSee end user., their intended goalSee business goal. and any additional information required to understand the story.
A user storyA small, concise statement of functionality or quality needed to deliver value to a specific stakeholder. is not an untouchable list of needs. It is regularly modified, which makes it very common to use in agile methodologyA body of methods, techniques, procedures, working concepts, and rules used to solve a problem..
Why use User Stories?
Captures stakeholderA group or individual with a relationship to the change, the need, or the solution. needs and prioritize development of solutions
Provides a basis for estimating and planning solution delivery.
Allows generating userSee end user. acceptance tests
Measures the delivery of value.
Traces and retraces requirements.
Creates a basis for additional analysis.
Assists projectA temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result. management and monitoringCollecting data on a continuous basis from a solution in order to determine how well a solution is implemented compared to expected results. See also metric; indicator..
Although user stories are able to quickly provide value, this speed makes documentation less complete. Indeed, the objective of a user story is not to sustain management needs, to form a baseline for future works or to fulfil stakeholders’ expectations. Additional documentation can be required.
Strengths
How to create a User Story
INVEST criteria
Who is accountable for writing user stories?
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On top of the brief description of the method, access to:
- an explanation of when and how to use it,
- a practical example,
- tips and recommendations for use,
- downloadable checklists and templates,
- references for further reading,
- …
