Use case
A step-by-step description of how a user reaches one goal with the system, including what can go differently.
Definition
A use case names the actor, the preconditions, the main success scenario, the alternative and exception flows, and what must be true afterward (postconditions). Testers turn each flow into at least one test scenario.
In practice
'Reorder a previous order' in a food delivery app: the happy path, plus sold-out dishes, a closed restaurant and a declined card.
Learn it in context
Lessons that use this term.
Related terms
- Use case testingTesting a complete user journey, the main path plus its alternative and error paths.
- ActorWhoever or whatever interacts with the system in a use case: a person, another system or a device.
- Main success scenarioThe use case's normal path, where everything goes right and the actor reaches the goal.
- Alternative flowA different route through a use case that still reaches the goal.
- Exception flowA route through a use case where an error or condition stops the actor from reaching the goal normally.
- PostconditionWhat must be true after a use case or test has finished.