Use Case Cards and Roleplay
for Object Oriented Development

Robert Biddle, James Noble, Ewan Tempero
School of Mathematical and Computing Sciences
Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand
{robert,kjx,ewan}@mcs.vuw.ac.nz

Abstract:

This paper presents a technique involving index cards and roleplay to assist in making use case development more accessible and better guided. The technique is based on the established CRC card technique used for object-oriented design. In our technique, essential use cases are recorded on cards, and roleplay is used for development and review. The paper presents the technique, and outlines our experience in applying it. We found the technique did achieve the expected benefits, and was especially useful in determining the system boundary. We also saw other significant benefits, some relating especially to the nature of essential use cases.

• Introduction
• Background
  • Use Cases
  • CRC Cards
• Use Case Cards and Roleplay
• Experience
• Essential Use Cases
• Conclusions
• References
• About this document ...