Key Inquiries for Success in Software Development
In the startup world, every Entrepreneur is asked the below questions. I believe these questions should be asked at the beginning of every software project. By addressing these questions early in the project planning process, the team can align on goals, clarify requirements, and ensure that the new software solution effectively addresses the needs of users or stakeholders. I have provided an explanation of what needs to be answered with some template text that can be used as a starting point in italics in each topic.
What is the Problem being solved?
It's essential to clearly define the problem the software intends to solve. This ensures that the development team has a clear direction and purpose.
The problem we are solving is [describe the problem or pain point], which is causing [negative impact on users, productivity, etc.]. This problem affects these users [briefly explain who it affects].
What are the existing solutions or workarounds used?
Knowing what solutions are currently in place helps in understanding what works, what doesn't, and what improvements can be made. It prevents reinventing the wheel and identifies gaps in existing solution. Sometimes there might not be an existing solution or workaround.
The current solution in place is [describe the existing software or method being used to address the problem]. While it may have served its purpose initially, it has limitations in terms of [mention specific shortcomings or inefficiencies].
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What are the limitations of the existing solution?
Recognizing the drawbacks of the current solution provides insights into areas that need improvement. This guides the development team in designing a solution that addresses these shortcomings effectively.
The drawback of the current solution is [highlight issues or limitations]. This results in [explain the negative consequences or challenges it poses].
How will the proposed solution overcome these limitations?
Once the problem and existing solutions are understood, proposing a new solution becomes more informed and targeted. This question allows the team to articulate their vision for the new software and its features.
The proposed solution involves [outline the key features or components of the new software project]. This solution aims to solve the following limitations of the existing solution, [state how the solution functionally aims to overcome the limitations].
Good one, extending this one as follows: 1. Identify the types of users of your system. You are solving the problem but there could be multiple direct or indirect beneficiaries. The type of users defines how intuitive your system/ solution should be. 2. Patterns that we could leverage to speed up the development 3. Ability to parallelize activities during implementation 4. Tools that ease communication, tracking and closure. Hope you agree that "to succeed" itself is a "problem" and being problem solvers, we often tend to miss on "defining the problem clearly"