Why-What-Acceptance (WWA)

Create product backlog items in Why-What-Acceptance format. Produces independent, valuable, testable items with strategic context.

Use when: Writing backlog items, creating product increments, breaking features into work items, or communicating strategic intent to teams.

Arguments:

• $PRODUCT: The product or system name
• $FEATURE: The new feature or capability
• $DESIGN: Link to design files (Figma, Miro, etc.)
• $ASSUMPTIONS: Key assumptions and strategic context

Step-by-Step Process

1. Define the strategic Why - Connect work to business and team objectives
2. Describe the What - Keep descriptions concise, reference designs
3. Write Acceptance Criteria - High-level, not detailed specifications
4. Ensure independence - Items can be developed in any order
5. Keep items negotiable - Invite team conversation, not constraints
6. Make items valuable - Each delivers measurable user or business value
7. Ensure testability - Outcomes are observable and verifiable
8. Size appropriately - Small enough for one sprint estimate

Item Template

Title: [What will be delivered]

Why: [1-2 sentences connecting to strategic context and team objectives]

What: [Short description and design link. 1-2 paragraphs maximum. A reminder of discussion, not detailed specification.]

Acceptance Criteria:

• [Observable outcome 1]
• [Observable outcome 2]
• [Observable outcome 3]
• [Observable outcome 4]

Example WWA Item

Title: Implement Real-Time Spending Tracker

Why: Users need immediate feedback on spending to make conscious budget decisions. This directly supports our goal to improve financial awareness and reduce overspending.