How can you prioritize functional and non-functional requirements in IT architecture documentation?

1 What are functional and non-functional requirements?

Functional requirements describe what the system should do, such as the features, functions, and behaviors that the users expect. Non-functional requirements describe how the system should do it, such as the reliability, security, usability, and scalability that the system must meet. Both types of requirements are important for delivering a system that meets the stakeholders' needs and expectations.

2 Why prioritize functional and non-functional requirements?

Prioritizing functional and non-functional requirements is a key step in the architecture documentation process, as it helps to align the architecture with the business goals and value proposition of the system, identify and resolve any conflicts or trade-offs between different requirements, allocate resources and time efficiently and effectively, communicate the architecture vision and rationale to stakeholders and developers, as well as manage changes and risks throughout the project lifecycle.

4 How to document functional and non-functional requirements?

When prioritizing functional and non-functional requirements, you should document them in a clear, concise, and consistent way. This documentation should include a unique identifier and a descriptive name for each requirement, along with a statement that follows the SMART criteria. You should also provide a rationale for the requirement, indicating its importance and how it relates to business goals and value proposition. Furthermore, you should include the source of the requirement, its priority using the chosen method and tool, and its status (agreed, validated, implemented, tested, or delivered).

5 How to review and update functional and non-functional requirements?

The functional and non-functional requirements are not static, but dynamic and evolving throughout the project lifecycle. Therefore, it is important to prioritize, document, review, and update them regularly. This should take into account feedback from stakeholders and users after testing and validation phases, as well as changes in the business environment, market, and technology after analysis and design phases. Additionally, consider the lessons learned from previous projects, best practices, and standards after evaluation and improvement phases. By ensuring your system delivers the expected value, quality, and performance to your stakeholders and users through these practices in your IT architecture documentation, you can guarantee success.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?