User Stories - RutgersGRID/VIDAHub GitHub Wiki

VIDA Project: User Stories by Implementation Phase

User stories are a way to capture a software feature from an end user's perspective. They're short, simple descriptions that follow a pattern: "As a [type of user], I want [some goal] so that [some reason]." This format helps development teams understand who needs the feature, what they want to accomplish, and why it's valuable to them. User stories focus on user needs rather than technical specifications, making them accessible to non-technical stakeholders while providing developers with context for their work. They're commonly used in agile development methodologies to break down complex projects into manageable pieces that deliver specific value.

VIDA Project: Complete User Stories

Phase 1: Infrastructure & Process Development

Development Environment

As a developer, I want to set up a standardized development environment with VS Code, UV package manager, and GitHub, so that I can efficiently contribute to the project.
As a developer, I want to create core AI integration pipelines for models like Claude and Hugging Face, so that we can leverage AI capabilities in our applications.
As a developer, I want to build automation scripts for dependency management and deployment, so that we can streamline the development process.
As a developer, I want to create templated Streamlit application frameworks, so that we can rapidly develop and deploy new tools.

Docker & AWS Implementation

As a developer, I want to have a standardized Docker template for Streamlit applications, so that I can consistently containerize any Streamlit app in the VIDA project.
As a developer, I want to create a multi-app Docker container architecture with Nginx, so that I can efficiently bundle multiple Streamlit applications into a single deployment.
As a DevOps engineer, I want to set up a central infrastructure repository, so that all deployment configurations and scripts are maintained in one place.
As a cloud architect, I want to define AWS infrastructure using Terraform, so that cloud resources can be provisioned in a controlled, version-controlled manner.
As a system administrator, I want to configure auto-scaling for ECS services, so that resources scale based on demand and reduce costs during off-hours.
As a DevOps engineer, I want to set up a secure ECS cluster with appropriate IAM roles, so that the container environment follows security best practices.
As a system administrator, I want to configure a load balancer for the containerized applications, so that traffic is properly distributed and the system is resilient.

Documentation & Standards

As a development team leader, I want to create a comprehensive onboarding document, so that new team members can quickly understand our technology stack and get started.
As a developer, I want to document the GitHub workflow process, so that all team members follow consistent practices for code contribution and reviews.
As a technical lead, I want to create documentation for the AI integration pipelines, so that other developers understand how to properly connect with Claude and Hugging Face models.
As a DevOps engineer, I want to document the containerization and deployment processes, so that deployments are consistent and reproducible.
As a developer, I want to create a technical reference for the Streamlit application templates, so that new tools can be rapidly created following established patterns.

Initial Applications

As an educator, I want to use an Alt Tag Generator tool, so that I can efficiently create accessible image descriptions for my course materials.
As an instructor, I want to use a basic Syllabus Creator, so that I can generate well-structured course syllabi without extensive manual formatting.
As a faculty member, I want to access simple educational mini-game templates, so that I can create basic interactive learning activities.

Phase 2: Tool Dashboard & Resource Hub

User Interface & Experience

As a developer, I want to create a centralized VIDA Dashboard with user authentication, so that users can access all tools from one interface.
As a user experience designer, I want to create a consistent navigation system across all tools, so that users can easily switch between different applications.
As a developer, I want to implement user feedback mechanisms in each tool, so that we can collect input for continuous improvement.
As a designer, I want to ensure all applications meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards, so that our tools are accessible to users with disabilities.

Tool Development

As an educator, I want to use an Educational Game Creator, so that I can develop engaging learning activities aligned with my course objectives.
As an instructor, I want to use a Character Generator, so that I can create engaging characters for educational narratives.
As a faculty member, I want to access a resource hub with educational technology resources, so that I can learn best practices for using digital tools.
As an educator, I want to provide feedback on tool functionality, so that the tools can be improved based on real classroom needs.

Integrations

As a developer, I want to implement initial API integrations for educational platforms, so that our tools can connect with existing systems.
As a developer, I want to set up analytics tracking, so that we can understand tool usage patterns.
As a developer, I want to implement Canvas LMS integration options, so that tools can be accessed from within the learning management system.
As a developer, I want to implement a secure authentication system, so that user data is protected and proper access control is maintained.

CI/CD & Deployment

As a developer, I want to implement an app registration system, so that new Streamlit applications can be easily added to the deployment pipeline.
As a DevOps engineer, I want to create GitHub Actions workflows for automated deployment, so that changes to applications trigger appropriate infrastructure updates.
As a project manager, I want to implement a cost analysis and reporting system, so that AWS expenses are tracked and optimization opportunities are identified.
As a developer, I want to update the template repository with CI/CD configuration, so that new applications automatically integrate with the deployment pipeline.

Documentation

As a developer, I want to create detailed API documentation, so that others can properly integrate with our system.
As a technical architect, I want to document the AWS deployment architecture, so that the infrastructure can be maintained and scaled properly.
As a developer, I want to create documentation for the Canvas LMS integration options, so that future developers understand how to leverage these connections.
As a UX designer, I want to document the user interface standards and component library, so that all tools maintain a consistent look and feel.
As a developer, I want to document the analytics implementation, so that team members understand what data is collected and how it can be accessed.

Phase 3: End-User Tool Creation Platform

Platform Development

As a developer, I want to create a natural language tool specification interface, so that non-technical users can create custom tools.
As a developer, I want to implement advanced LMS integrations, so that tools can seamlessly work with student data and course structures.
As a developer, I want to create a tool sharing marketplace, so that users can discover and use tools created by others.
As a developer, I want to implement a personal dashboard for users, so that they can manage their created tools and saved preferences.

Advanced Integrations

As a developer, I want to implement OAuth-based authentication flows, so that users can securely connect our tools with their institutional systems.
As a developer, I want to create a standardized data exchange format, so that tools can share information with other educational platforms.
As a developer, I want to implement Canvas Developer Keys integration, so that tools can be deployed institution-wide with proper permissions.
As a system architect, I want to design a scalable backend infrastructure, so that the platform can support growing numbers of users and tools.

End-User Capabilities

As an educator, I want to specify and create my own custom tools using natural language, so that I can address specific instructional needs without technical expertise.
As an instructor, I want to share tools I've created with colleagues, so that we can collaborate on educational resources.
As a faculty member, I want to customize existing tools to match my teaching context, so that they better align with my specific course requirements.
As an educator, I want to access a personal dashboard to manage my created tools, so that I can track and update them over time.

Documentation & Standards

As a developer, I want to document the natural language tool specification system, so that future enhancements can build on its architecture.
As a technical lead, I want to create documentation for the tool marketplace infrastructure, so that it can be properly maintained and expanded.
As a security specialist, I want to document the authentication and authorization systems, so that security considerations are properly understood and maintained.
As a system architect, I want to document the scalability features of the platform, so that future growth can be accommodated methodically.
As a developer, I want to create a comprehensive API reference for third-party developers, so that external integrations can be built properly.

Administration & Management

As an administrator, I want to implement team management features, so that I can organize users by department or function.
As an institutional leader, I want to apply institutional branding to our tools, so that they align with our visual identity.
As a department chair, I want to access advanced analytics on tool usage and impact, so that I can assess the value of the platform.
As an administrator, I want to manage user permissions and access controls, so that appropriate data governance is maintained.

AI Agents & Tools

Alt Tag Generator

As an educator, I want to upload images and receive automatically generated alternative text, so that my teaching materials are accessible to all students.
As an instructional designer, I want to customize generated alt text based on specific contexts, so that the descriptions are relevant to the learning objectives.
As a faculty member, I want to batch process multiple images at once, so that I can efficiently make my entire course accessible.
As an accessibility coordinator, I want to validate alt text against accessibility guidelines, so that I can ensure compliance with standards.

Syllabus Creator

As an instructor, I want to generate a well-structured syllabus from basic course information, so that I can save time on formatting and organization.
As a department chair, I want to ensure syllabi include required institutional policies, so that all courses comply with regulatory requirements.
As a faculty member, I want to customize syllabus templates to match my teaching style, so that the document reflects my course approach.
As an educator, I want to import learning objectives from existing documentation, so that my syllabus aligns with curriculum requirements.

Educational Game Creator

As an instructor, I want to create educational games aligned with specific learning objectives, so that I can increase student engagement.
As a faculty member, I want to select from multiple game mechanics and templates, so that I can match activities to appropriate content.
As an instructional designer, I want to customize game difficulty and complexity, so that activities are appropriate for different student levels.
As an educator, I want to export games in formats compatible with my LMS, so that students can easily access the activities.

Character Creator

As an instructor, I want to generate diverse characters for educational narratives, so that I can create engaging and inclusive learning scenarios.
As a faculty member, I want to customize character traits and backgrounds, so that they align with specific learning objectives.
As an educator, I want to export character descriptions in multiple formats, so that I can use them across various teaching materials.
As an instructional designer, I want to create character dialogue for learning scenarios, so that I can build interactive case studies.

Voice Agent

As an educator, I want to transcribe lecture recordings, so that I can provide accessible text versions to students.
As a faculty member, I want to convert text content to natural-sounding speech, so that I can provide audio alternatives to written materials.
As an instructor, I want to use voice commands to control VIDA tools, so that I can work hands-free during class preparation.
As a language instructor, I want to generate pronunciation guides for terms, so that students can hear correct pronunciations.

Testing, Security & Maintenance

Testing

As a QA engineer, I want to test the container architecture locally, so that issues can be identified before cloud deployment.
As a developer, I want to implement automated testing for each application, so that code quality is maintained throughout development.
As a user experience researcher, I want to conduct usability testing with actual educators, so that we can validate our design assumptions.
As a system administrator, I want to perform load testing on the platform, so that we can ensure it handles expected user volumes.

Security & Compliance

As a security specialist, I want to implement data encryption standards, so that sensitive information is protected.
As a compliance officer, I want to ensure all tools meet educational data privacy requirements, so that we comply with regulations like FERPA.
As a system administrator, I want to implement security logging and monitoring, so that potential issues can be detected and addressed.
As a developer, I want to establish secure coding practices for all applications, so that we minimize security vulnerabilities.

Maintenance & Support

As a system administrator, I want to set up monitoring and alerting, so that issues can be quickly identified and addressed.
As a support specialist, I want to create a knowledge base for common user questions, so that users can find solutions independently.
As a project manager, I want to establish a process for prioritizing feature requests, so that development resources are allocated effectively.
As a developer, I want to implement a structured update process for applications, so that new features and fixes can be deployed reliably.

Cost Optimization

As a finance manager, I want to implement recommended cost optimization measures, so that cloud expenses are minimized without compromising performance.
As a system administrator, I want to implement CloudFront for static asset caching, so that delivery of static content is optimized for performance and cost.
As a DevOps engineer, I want to set up detailed cost allocation tagging, so that expenses can be tracked at a granular level.
As a project manager, I want to review resource utilization regularly, so that we can identify opportunities for optimization.