Synergy of Technical Specifications, Functional Specifications and Scenarios in Requirements Specifications

Abstract

In the (mechanical) design process, the requirements specification is a formal registration of the conditions that are imposed on a new or altered product design, both preceding as well as during the corresponding product development cycle. For a long time, the use of technical specifications has prevailed in the establishment of such requirements specifications. However, gradually, there is an appreciation for the fact that sheer technical specifications may inadvertently fix constraints and possibilities too early in the process. Moreover, it is recognized that technical specifications are unsuitable to adequately address the role of unquantifiable aspects that play important roles in the development cycle. Using functional specifications and scenarios respectively may aid in addressing these problems. Considering the importance of having an effective requirements specification, the coherence, synergy and specifics of technical specifications, functional specifications and scenarios as part of the requirements specification are addressed. This publication focuses on the different roles, limitations and added values of the constituents of the requirements specification.