Week 6 · Adaptive Planning Program

26. Backlog Creation and User Stories

30 min

By the end you'll be able to

Write user stories in standard format
Prioritize backlog items based on value and feasibility
Estimate effort for user stories

A massive intervention plan can be paralyzing until it is broken down into bite-sized, actionable tasks. This lesson teaches you to write User Stories using the standard format: “As a [User], I want [Feature], so that [Benefit]”.

We compile these stories into a Product Backlog, a master list of work that is rigorously prioritized based on value and risk rather than just chronology.

Practice quiz

Question 1
Which of the following follows the standard User Story format taught in the lesson?
- Build a clinic reminder system by Q3
- As a new patient, I want text reminders the day before my visit, so that I do not miss my appointment
- Patients tend to forget appointments, which is a problem
- Increase appointment attendance by 15 percent
Question 2
How is the Product Backlog ordered, according to the lesson?
- Alphabetically by task title
- By the order tasks were submitted
- By value and risk, not just chronology
- By the seniority of the staff member assigned
Reflection 3
Write a User Story for a community member who needs help finding a free mental health screening, using the standard format.

Saved in your browser only — no account, no server.