Are user stories required for GDS assessments?

Practical answers to frequently asked questions and common challenges in Agile story writing and digital delivery.

No, they are not required, but they are highly useful. User stories help show that the team is planning and delivering work based on real user needs. Well-written stories, linked to user research and the current service phase, can support your case during an assessment.

They give assessors evidence that:

• The team is focused on delivering value

• Work is broken into small, testable pieces

• Decisions are based on user needs and feedback

User stories are not mandatory, but they are a clear sign of a mature, user-focused approach to delivery.