Specification by Example Training: From User Stories to Acceptance Tests

Unlock the cornerstone strategy for successful testing and requirements management in Agile and Lean processes such as Scrum, Extreme Programming, and Kanban. In this two-day workshop led by Gojko Adzic, you will learn how to utilize Specification by Example to bridge the communication gap between stakeholders and implementation teams. Build quality into your software from the start and design, develop, and deliver systems that are perfectly fit for purpose. 

Course Objectives

In this interactive workshop led by Gojko Adzic, participants will learn fundamental and advanced techniques to effectively integrate Specification by Example into their development processes. By the end of this course, participants will be able to: 

• Extend Specifications with Examples: Learn how to enhance specifications with precise examples to create a single source of truth for testing and development. Avoid Functional Gaps and Inconsistencies: Understand how to refine specification and testing processes to prevent inconsistencies and gaps.
• Facilitate Specification Workshops: Gain skills in conducting specification workshops to promote effective collaboration among all stakeholders.
• Develop Best Practices for Agile Teams: Acquire knowledge on the best practices for designing specifications with examples and acceptance tests, tailored specifically for agile teams.
• Create a Living Documentation System: Learn to establish a living documentation system that facilitates changes and improves the development process over the long term.
• Recognize Applications in Diverse Contexts: Gain insights into how different teams—from small web startups to large, distributed teams in investment banks—apply Specification by Example in their environments.

Our Course includes

• User Stories Book: "Fifty Quick Ideas to Improve Your User Stories", another practical guide by Gojko Adzic to refine your user story skills.
• Exclusive Mailing List: Direct access to a mailing list for ongoing questions and guidance from Gojko Adzic after the workshop.
• Curated Recommendations: A selection of recommended readings, articles, and presentations curated by Gojko to further your learning.
• Printed Handouts: Detailed handouts of the workshop content for easy reference and review.
• Full-Day Catering: Enjoy beverages, snacks, and a catered lunch throughout the day to enhance your learning experience.

Target Audience

• Testers - Gain insights on how to effectively use examples to drive development and ensure comprehensive test coverage that aligns with user expectations and business needs.
• Developers - Understand how to collaborate closely with testers and business analysts to implement specifications that lead to the development of software truly fit for purpose.
• Business Analysts - Learn techniques to articulate clear and actionable specifications that bridge the gap between business objectives and technical execution.

This workshop is specifically designed for professionals who are integral to the software development and testing process, and who wish to enhance their skills in Specification by Example and effective communication within agile teams.

Course Outline Specification by Example Training: Modules and Key Topics Extending Specifications with Examples:

Learn the techniques to expand your specifications using examples, creating a reliable foundation for testing and development that all team members can trust. 

Preventing Functional Gaps:

Discover methods to identify and eliminate gaps and inconsistencies in specifications and tests, ensuring seamless integration and functionality. 

Facilitating Specification Workshops:

Master the art of conducting specification workshops that foster effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders. 

Best Practices for Agile Teams:

Explore best practices for designing specifications with examples and acceptance tests tailored to the needs of agile teams, enhancing clarity and efficiency. 

Creating a Living Documentation System:

Learn how to establish and maintain a living documentation system that supports continuous change and improvement, ensuring that your processes remain effective and adaptable over time. 

Real-World Applications:

Gain insights into how diverse teams, from nimble web startups to expansive teams in large investment banks, successfully implement Specification by Example in their various contexts. 

Trainer: Gojko Adzic

Gojko is a strategic software delivery consultant who works with ambitious teams to improve the quality of their software products and processes. He specialises in agile and lean quality improvement, in particular agile testing, specification by example and behaviour driven development.

Gojko’s book Specification by Example was awarded the #2 spot on the top 100 agile books for 2012 and won the Jolt Award for the best book of 2012. In 2011, he was voted by peers as the most influential agile testing professional, and his blog won the UK agile award for the best online publication in 2010.