scrum user story format , In Scrum and other Agile methodologies, a user story is a brief, simple description of a feature or requirement told from the perspective of the person who desires the new capability, usually a user or customer of the system. The primary purpose of a user story is to foster a discussion and understanding between the team and the stakeholders about the desired outcome, rather than prescribing a specific way to implement it.
The typical format for a user story is:
As a [type of user], I want [an action] so that [a benefit/a value].
- As a: Represents the role or persona of the person who wants the feature.
- I want: Describes the feature or requirement.
- So that: Explains the reason or value behind the request.
Example:
As a library member, I want to be able to reserve a book online so that I can ensure its availability when I visit.
Besides the main format, user stories often come with additional details:
- Acceptance Criteria: These are conditions that specify the boundaries of the story and are used to confirm when it has been implemented correctly. For the example above, the acceptance criteria could include:
- A member can search for a book by title or author.
- A member can see which books are available.
- A member receives a confirmation when a reservation is successful.
- Notes/Comments: Any additional details or clarifications about the story that emerged during discussions.
- Attachments: Things like mockups, diagrams, or any other documentation that helps to clarify the requirement.
- Estimation: Once the story is clear, the team will often assign an estimate to it, which could be in story points, hours, or any other unit of estimation.
The user story format is deliberately concise, focusing on what the user needs and why, without delving into the details of how the feature should be implemented. This allows for a collaborative discussion on the best way to achieve the desired outcome.
scrum user story format