A Use Case is an artifact for describing and exploring how a user interacts with a system to achieve a specific goal.
It captures the interaction between an actor (typically a user or another system) and the system itself in order to accomplish a task or produce a result. Use cases provide structure for identifying requirements, validating functionality, and aligning system behavior with stakeholder needs.
Key Characteristics
- Goal-Oriented – Focuses on what the user is trying to accomplish
- Scenario-Based – Describes step-by-step interaction with the system
- Actor-Driven – Initiated by a user or external system (the “actor”)
- Supports Functional Requirements – Helps define what the system must do
Example Scenarios
- A customer logs into an e-commerce platform to place an order
- A project manager generates a status report from a dashboard
- A system administrator resets a user password
Role in Requirements and Design
- Improves Clarity – Illustrates how a system will be used in real-world scenarios
- Supports Test Case Development – Forms the basis for validating requirements
- Enhances Stakeholder Communication – Bridges technical and non-technical understanding
- Feeds System Design – Informs workflows, data flows, and interface design
See also: User Story, Requirements Documentation, Functional Requirement, Acceptance Criteria, System Design Specification.