What is the primary purpose of defining alternate stages in case modeling?

Defining alternate stages in case modeling primarily serves to address exceptional circumstances in case processing. In many case scenarios, the standard sequence of stages may not cover every possible situation that can arise. Alternate stages provide a structured way to manage these exceptions by allowing cases to diverge from the main path when needed. This ensures that all possible variations in processing are accounted for, which can help in efficiently resolving issues that are outside the norm.

For instance, if a case typically moves through specific stages under normal circumstances, there may be scenarios where additional actions or different sequences are required due to unique challenges or requirements. Alternate stages facilitate this flexibility, enabling a more comprehensive approach to case management that can adapt to various needs and situations.

In contrast, options that suggest padding the lifecycle with breaks or creating unrelated sequences may complicate the process without addressing the core need for managing exceptions effectively. Similarly, while enhancing user engagement is important, the primary function of alternate stages is not focused on user interaction but rather on ensuring robustness in case handling by accommodating scenarios that do not fit within the standard flow. Thus, the focus remains on managing exceptional circumstances to facilitate smoother case processing.