User Stories

Components of a User Story

Make the distinction between user stories and product requirements
Often, product owners mix up the what and the how of work that needs to be done. Product owners should be focused on the “what” - the specific value provided by a piece of work
Analogy: Imagine looking at a map and needing to get to a destination. In this scenario, the product owner would pick what the destination should be, but it is up to the development team to determine how to get there.
Closely examine your user stories: Are they talking about customer value or are they just detailed project requirements?
Think of user stories like a note for a future conversation. Give the team the freedom to brainstorm solutions.
The same way that you wouldn’t go to a top-notch restaurant and tell the chef how to cook, you shouldn’t tell the development team how to develop the product, it’s their kitchen.
Tips for good user stories:
- Encourage the product owner to do less
  - Have them think about product value, NOT technical detail
- Encourage the product owner to collaborate with the team
  - Remember, Agile teams focus on face-to-face communication
  - Therefore, use your stories to encourage conversation