User Story Mapping Template

What are user stories?

A single user story is an informal statement from an end user’s perspective that shows what the client needs. A user story acts as a bridge between client requirements and business values. A user story map connects multiple user stories to give a comprehensive roadmap to the product team and help them visualize what needs to be done.

Why should I use the user story mapping template?

User story maps can create a significant difference in a team’s productivity and help with sprint planning. They keep your team motivated and encourage members to come up with innovative solutions.

Some prominent advantages of user story mapping are it:

• Focuses on the end-user
• Allows effective project management
• Improves customer satisfaction
• Brings everyone on the same page

Writing an effective user story

Any good user story will answer these essential questions about any task.

• Who is it for?
• What needs to be done?
• Why is it important?

Most user stories (almost 70%) have the following pattern:

As a [role] (Who), I want to [action] (What). So that [benefit] (Why)

Notice how this pattern has the following qualities

• It is short and concise
• It has a clear definition of done
• It uses personas to understand the end user’s position