User Story

Why User Stories Matter

Work without context leads to solutions looking for problems. User stories force clarity about who benefits, what they need, and why it matters. This simple structure prevents wasted effort on features nobody wanted.

The format creates a shared language between technical and business stakeholders.

The Format

As a [type of user],
I want [some action or feature],
so that [business value or outcome].

Examples

• As a new employee, I want a searchable knowledge base, so that I can find answers without interrupting colleagues.
• As a manager, I want weekly progress reports, so that I can identify blockers early.
• As a customer, I want order status notifications, so that I know when to expect delivery.

Implementation

Writing Good Stories

• Be specific about the actor — “user” is too vague; “first-time visitor” is better
• Focus on the need, not the solution — describe the problem, not your preferred implementation
• Make value measurable — how will you know the story succeeded?

Acceptance Criteria

Add testable conditions that define “done”:

• Given [context], when [action], then [expected result]
• Include edge cases and error states
• Keep criteria independent and testable

Story Sizing

• Stories should be completable in one iteration
• If too large, split by user type, workflow step, or data scope
• If too small, consider combining related stories

Common Pitfalls

• Technical stories without users — infrastructure work still serves someone
• Solutions disguised as stories — “I want a dropdown menu” isn’t a user need
• Missing the “so that” — value justifies priority decisions
• Stories as contracts — they’re conversation starters, not specifications

Related Practices

• Iterative Development (for planning story completion)
• Environment Forming (for creating space to gather requirements)