Käytötapaukset

Käytötapaukset, often translated as "use cases" in English, are a fundamental concept in software development and systems engineering. They describe how a user or another system interacts with a given system to achieve a specific goal. A use case is essentially a narrative that outlines a sequence of actions and the expected outcome.

The primary purpose of use cases is to capture functional requirements from the perspective of the user. They help define what the system should do, not how it should do it. This user-centric approach ensures that the developed system meets the needs and expectations of its intended audience.

Each use case typically includes a unique name, a brief description, actors (the users or external systems involved), preconditions, postconditions, and the main success scenario. The main scenario outlines the typical flow of events. Extensions or alternative flows are also documented to cover exceptional situations or variations in user interaction.

By detailing these interactions, use cases provide a common understanding among stakeholders, including developers, testers, and clients. They serve as a basis for designing the system's interface, developing test cases, and communicating the system's functionality. They are a valuable tool for ensuring that the final product is both usable and effective.