Learning to Write User Stories with the 4C Model: Context, Card, Conversation, and Confirmation

Abstract

Writing user stories that effectively support software product development is difficult for students new to the practice. This position paper addresses this challenge by extending the existing 3C model for defining user stories with an extra C for ‘context’. This format is targeted to interactive software systems and inspired by a grounded theory research study where the observed product managers provided context by basing most user stories on concrete and validated design artifacts, such as wireframes. After experimenting with the 4C model during four semesters with positive initial results, we posit that the model helps students generate stories that are easier to create and review while supporting the development of innovative solutions that satisfy the stakeholders’ needs.