How do you get approval for product requirements?

1 Define the problem

The first step is to define the problem that your product is trying to solve. You need to understand the needs and pain points of your target users, the market opportunity and demand, and the competitive landscape. You can use various methods to gather and analyze data, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, market research, and user testing. You should also consult with your internal stakeholders, such as your manager, your team, and other departments, to get their input and feedback. By defining the problem clearly, you will be able to communicate the value proposition and the goals of your product.

2 Write the requirements

The next step is to write the requirements that describe how your product will solve the problem. You need to be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) when writing your requirements. You should also prioritize your requirements based on their importance, urgency, and feasibility. You can use various tools and frameworks to document and organize your requirements, such as user stories, epics, themes, features, scenarios, and acceptance criteria. You should also use diagrams, mockups, wireframes, and prototypes to illustrate your requirements visually.

3 Validate the requirements

The third step is to validate your requirements with your users and stakeholders. You need to make sure that your requirements are aligned with the expectations and needs of your customers, as well as the objectives and constraints of your organization. You can use various methods to validate your requirements, such as user testing, feedback sessions, reviews, and demos. You should also collect and analyze data, such as metrics, feedback, and user behavior, to measure the impact and value of your requirements. By validating your requirements, you will be able to identify and resolve any gaps, errors, or inconsistencies.

4 Present the requirements

The fourth step is to present your requirements to your approval authority. You need to prepare a compelling and concise presentation that showcases the problem, the solution, and the benefits of your product. You should also highlight the key features, the scope, the timeline, the budget, and the risks of your product. You should also anticipate and address any questions, concerns, or objections that your approval authority may have. By presenting your requirements effectively, you will be able to persuade and convince your approval authority to approve your product.

5 Negotiate the requirements

The fifth step is to negotiate your requirements with your approval authority. You need to be flexible and open-minded when negotiating your requirements, as you may need to make some trade-offs or compromises. You should also be respectful and assertive when negotiating your requirements, as you need to defend and justify your decisions and priorities. You should also document and communicate any changes or agreements that result from the negotiation process. By negotiating your requirements constructively, you will be able to reach a mutually beneficial and satisfactory outcome.

6 Finalize the requirements

The final step is to finalize your requirements and get the formal approval from your approval authority. You need to review and confirm your requirements, and make sure that they are clear, complete, and consistent. You should also obtain the signature or the confirmation of your approval authority, and communicate the approval to your team and other stakeholders. You should also update and archive your requirements documentation, and use it as a baseline for your product development. By finalizing your requirements, you will be able to start building your product with confidence and clarity.

7 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?