HKSM
use case
A deliverable that explains and examines how a user interacts with a system to accomplish a specific goal.
Key Points
- Focuses on an actor (user or external system) pursuing a clear objective.
- Captures steps of interaction, including main and alternate flows.
- Often lists preconditions, triggers, and expected outcomes (postconditions).
- Helps align requirements, design, testing, and acceptance criteria.
Example
An online banking project documents a use case called "Transfer Funds." It identifies the actor (account holder), preconditions (user is authenticated), main flow (select accounts, enter amount, confirm), alternate flows (insufficient funds, invalid account), and postconditions (transaction recorded, balances updated).
PMP Example Question
Which artifact should the team create to map the step-by-step interactions a customer follows to complete an online return, including alternate paths and conditions?
- User story
- Use case
- Wireframe
- Product roadmap
Correct Answer: B — Use case
Explanation: A use case details how an actor interacts with the system to achieve a goal, including main and alternate flows, conditions, and outcomes.
