Daily-Use Scenarios

Daily-use scenarios are the most useful and important. These are the main actions that the user will perform, typically with the greatest frequency. In a bug-tracking application, for example, looking up bugs and filling out newly reported bug forms are typical daily-use scenarios. Any tech-support person performs these two tasks numerous times each day.

In general, most users only have a very limited repertoire of daily-use scenarios. One or two is typical. More than three is rare.

Daily-use scenarios need the most robust interaction support. New users must master them quickly, so they need to be supported by good, built-in pedagogy. That is, instructions for use should be written right on the program. However, because the programs are used so often, no users will remain dependent on that pedagogy for long. They will rapidly demand shortcuts. In addition, as users become very experienced, they will want to customize daily-use interaction so that it conforms to their individual work styles and preferences.