Functional User Stories primarily add what to an application?

Functional User Stories are pivotal in defining the requirements of an application from the user's perspective. They focus on what the user needs to achieve through the application and help clarify the features or functionalities that should be included to enhance usability and satisfaction. By concentrating on user needs, Functional User Stories outline the expected changes and improvements in user experience, driving the development of new functionalities accordingly.

Effective user stories capture the essence of user interaction with the application, ensuring that the development team understands the desired outcomes and can implement features that fulfill those goals. This impact on functionality and user experience is fundamental to the iterative process of agile development, ensuring that each new release addresses user feedback and evolving needs.

In contrast, performance enhancements, integration with external systems, and documentation updates do not directly stem from user stories. While these aspects are important for the overall application quality and lifecycle, they are not primarily focused on user experience or the direct functionality that users seek, which is the core aim of Functional User Stories.