Käyttötapauksilla

käyttötapauksilla (Finnish for “use cases”) refer to a method for capturing functional requirements of a system from the perspective of its stakeholders. The concept originated in the field of software engineering and has become a standard part of modelling languages such as UML. A typical käyttötapaus description includes the actors who will interact with the system, the sequence of actions that are performed, and the expected outcome of the interaction. The goal is to represent the system’s behavior in a way that is understandable to both technical and non‑technical audiences.

The use case approach is widely employed in application design, test planning, and project management. It helps teams identify the boundaries of a system, clarify requirements, and expose potential ambiguities early in development. In business analysis, use cases support the creation of business process models and inform the development of user stories for agile teams. The difference between a use case and a user story is largely one of depth and structure; a use case provides a more detailed narrative and may include alternative paths and exceptional conditions, whereas a user story focuses on a single capability delivered to a user.

In Finnish industry, käyttötapauksilla are used in software development, service design, and even procurement documentation. Organizations often combine use cases with other artefacts—such as process maps, feasibility studies, and quality attribute scenarios—to ensure a holistic view of system behaviour. As digital transformation accelerates, clear and concise use case documentation continues to be a valuable tool for aligning stakeholder expectations and guiding technical implementation.