What does the term "include" refer to in use case specifications?

The term "include" in use case specifications refers to a feature that allows a use case to utilize functionalities from another use case. This mechanism facilitates code reuse and eliminates redundancy by enabling a primary use case to incorporate the behavior outlined in a secondary use case.

When a primary use case includes another, it can invoke the included use case at a certain point, effectively delegating specific behaviors or functions. This modular approach enhances clarity and maintenance, as developers can update the included use case independently without altering the primary use case’s structure extensively.

By establishing a clear relationship between use cases, "include" helps in modeling complex systems and illustrates how functionalities are interconnected, thereby reflecting real-world interactions more accurately.