User stories are informal and general explanations of a software feature from the perspective of the end-user. The purpose of a user story is to articulate how a particular feature will provide value to the customer. In other words, how will they use the product to solve problems or address pain points in their life?
Most user stories are constructed in the following form: “As a [type of user], I want [some goal] so that [some reason].” Other teams use the construct “As a [description of user], I want [functionality] so that [benefit].”
With those definitions in mind, the rest of this article will be devoted to explaining some user story examples.
Some basic user story examples
Here are five basic user story examples:
- As a brand manager, I want to receive an alert when a product reseller promotes our products at less than the predetermined price so that I can take steps to protect our brand reputation.
- As a remote team leader, I want our team-chat app to incorporate file sharing and annotation so the team can maintain an archive of their work in one place and collaborate in real-time.
- As a database administrator, I want to combine datasets from different sources automatically so that I can compile reports for internal customers more easily.
- As an iOS user, I want to be able to synchronize activity data with my Apple Watch so that I can better track calories burned.
- As a human resources manager, I need to view the status of a job candidate to better manage the application process across various recruitment phases.
Note that in the second example, it is clear that the user in a user story does not necessarily have to denote someone’s job title. In fact, a remote team leader encompasses multiple roles, such as a company vice president, departmental head, or the CEO of a new startup.
To better explain the second user story, it makes sense to use the term “remote team leader” to describe an individual who leads a team of subordinates working in different locations.
User story example scenarios
In addition to the simple templates outlined in the introduction, user stories may also be required in scenarios that are more complex or multi-faceted. Some of the user story types ideal for these situations include:
- SAFe feature user stories – a template that incorporates additional information about each product feature such as non-functional requirements, cost of delay, and the benefit hypothesis.
- Thematic user stories – this template is used by teams to identify user stories that are related to a similar theme, such as a common functional area. The work may entail multiple small improvements that deliver a more substantial performance increase. In most cases, there is no requirement that the work is completed in a specific order since each story provides some independent value to the end-user.
- Epic user stories – epics represent larger user stories that cannot be completed in a single sprint but that collectively deliver a particular outcome. An example of an epic user story requiring several iterations is “As a marketing data analyst, I want to create trend reports and forecasts that I can use to support the sales initiatives of marketing representatives in a specific region.”
Case Studies
E-commerce Platform:
As an online shopper, I want the option to save items to my wish list so that I can easily find and purchase them later.
As a frequent buyer, I want personalized product recommendations based on my browsing and purchase history to discover new items I might like.
As a gift shopper, I want to be able to include a gift message and choose gift wrapping options during checkout to send presents to friends and family.
Project Management Tool:
As a project manager, I want a Gantt chart view of tasks and deadlines so that I can effectively plan and monitor project timelines.
As a team member, I want to receive email notifications for task assignments and updates to stay informed about project progress.
As an executive, I want a dashboard that provides a high-level overview of all ongoing projects to make strategic decisions.
E-learning Platform:
As an instructor, I want the ability to upload video lectures and course materials so that students can access them at their convenience.
As a student, I want a discussion forum for each course to ask questions and engage in class discussions with my peers.
As an administrator, I want robust reporting features to track student progress and course engagement.
Travel Booking Website:
As a traveler, I want to filter hotel search results by price range, star rating, and guest reviews to find accommodations that match my preferences.
As a frequent flyer, I want the option to save multiple passenger profiles to expedite the booking process for family and group trips.
As a travel agent, I want to have access to a comprehensive booking management system to assist customers in making reservations.
Key takeaways:
- User stories are informal and general explanations of a software feature from the perspective of the end-user.
- User stories are constructed in the following form: “As a [type of user], I want [some goal] so that [some reason].” Other teams use the construct “As a [description of user], I want [functionality] so that [benefit].”
- For more complex or multifaceted scenarios, the team may choose to base product development on SAFe feature user stories, thematic user stories, or epic user stories.
Key Highlights
- Understanding User Stories:
- User stories explain software features from the end-user’s perspective, focusing on the value delivered.
- A user story follows a format like “As a [type of user], I want [goal] so that [reason].”
- Basic User Story Examples:
- Example 1: Brand manager receives alerts about product reseller pricing to protect brand reputation.
- Example 2: Remote team leader needs team-chat app with file sharing and annotation for collaboration and archive.
- Example 3: Database administrator combines datasets for easier report compilation.
- Example 4: iOS user wants activity data synchronization with Apple Watch for better fitness tracking.
- Example 5: HR manager needs to track job candidate status across recruitment phases.
- Clarifying User Roles in Stories:
- User roles don’t have to be job titles; they can be descriptive of the function or role a user plays.
- For instance, “remote team leader” encompasses various roles within different organizations.
- User Story Example Scenarios:
- User stories can extend beyond simple templates to address more complex situations.
- SAFe Feature User Stories: Additional info about product features like non-functional requirements, cost of delay, and benefit hypothesis.
- Thematic User Stories: Grouping related stories for a common theme or functional area, delivering independent value.
- Epic User Stories: Large stories that collectively achieve a significant outcome, requiring multiple iterations.
- Key Takeaways:
- User stories describe software features from the end-user’s perspective.
- Format: “As a [type of user], I want [goal] so that [reason].”
- Complex scenarios may involve SAFe feature, thematic, or epic user stories.
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As a registered user, | I want to be able to log in with my email and password |
I want to log in | so that I can access my personalized account. |
User Story | Description |
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As a customer, | I want to add items to my shopping cart |
I want to add products to my cart | so that I can review and purchase them later. |
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As a social media user, | I want to be able to like and comment on posts |
I want to interact with posts | to engage with the content and communicate with others. |
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As an event organizer, | I want to create and publish an event |
I want to create events | so that attendees can see event details and RSVP. |
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As a content creator, | I want to upload and publish videos |
I want to upload videos | to share my content with my audience. |
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As a project manager, | I want to assign tasks to team members |
I want to assign tasks | to delegate work and track project progress. |
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As a traveler, | I want to search for flights and book tickets |
I want to book a flight | so that I can plan my trip and secure my seat. |
User Story | Description |
---|---|
As a food delivery driver, | I want to see the delivery address and order details |
I want to view delivery details | to ensure accurate and timely delivery to the customer. |
Connected Agile & Lean Frameworks
Read Also: Continuous Innovation, Agile Methodology, Lean Startup, Business Model Innovation, Project Management.
Read Next: Agile Methodology, Lean Methodology, Agile Project Management, Scrum, Kanban, Six Sigma.
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