Software Development
User Story
Definition
A user story is an informal, general explanation of a software feature written from the perspective of the end user or customer. Its purpose is to articulate how a software feature will provide value to the customer.
Why It Matters
User stories keep the focus on the user. Instead of describing technical requirements, they describe user goals, which helps the team to build a more valuable and user-centric product.
Contextual Example
A common format for a user story is: "As a [type of user], I want [some goal] so that [some reason]." For example: "As a shopper, I want to save items to a wishlist so that I can buy them later."
Common Misunderstandings
- A user story is not a detailed specification; it is a "promise for a conversation." The details are worked out in discussions between the Product Owner and the development team.
- Good user stories follow the INVEST acronym: Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, and Testable.