APMG Agile Foundation Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes 'User Stories' in Agile?

1. Technical specifications of products

2. Descriptions of features from the user's perspective

3. Detailed functional requirements

4. Performance metrics for the software

The correct answer is: Descriptions of features from the user's perspective

User stories are a fundamental component of Agile methodologies, serving as a means to communicate requirements and expectations in a way that emphasizes user needs. They are typically short, simple descriptions of a feature told from the perspective of the user who will benefit from it, focusing on the value that feature brings to the user. The key aspect of user stories is that they are not technical specifications or detailed functional requirements; instead, they convey what the user wants to accomplish, encapsulating the who, what, and why of a functionality. This approach helps prioritize the development efforts around delivering user value and encourages collaboration between stakeholders and the development team. In contrast, technical specifications, detailed functional requirements, and performance metrics do not typically capture user needs or perspectives in the same straightforward and accessible manner that user stories do. Thus, the description of features from the user's perspective aligns perfectly with the purpose and essence of user stories in Agile.