When modeling the life cycle of a case, alternate stages are used to represent what?

When modeling the life cycle of a case, alternate stages are used to represent exceptions to the normal course of events that can be sequenced into primary stages. This approach allows for the inclusion of variations or special circumstances that might arise during case processing, which are not part of the standard flow. By incorporating alternate stages, a case can more accurately reflect real-world scenarios where deviations may occur, enabling a more flexible and comprehensive management of the case life cycle.

Alternate stages serve as a mechanism to handle situations that require different processing than what is typically expected. For instance, if a case is affected by unexpected circumstances, these stages offer a way to manage those scenarios effectively without disrupting the overall flow of the case. They are not merely delays, milestones, or optional enhancements; instead, they play a critical role in ensuring that all possible paths through the case are accounted for, thus fostering better decision-making and case outcomes.