Why make assumptions on the road when you can follow a road map? The methodology behind requirements planning for website and web application development is to minimize risks and variables of a project so that deliverables are executed efficiently. The optimal time to do this is at the beginning of the project.
From a consulting standpoint, there are a number of components that must be addressed before a project can transition into a design or development phase. It is important for both parties to validate the requirements that should drive the overall project so that expectations are met when the project is executed. This is where requirements planning comes into play. It is the first phase involving market research, competitive analysis, and end user requirements that ultimately defines the overall scope of the project.
The Requirements Definition Process
Every requirements engagement begins with a thorough business discovery session which ultimately outlines the main goals and focus of the project. After determining the objectives of the web project, the persona development aspect of the requirements planning process is addressed. This essentially defines the audience groups that will be visiting the website and using the web application.
Once all of the information is gathered and documented an Information Architecture (IA) is created to organize the basic functionalities for the web application. High Fidelity Prototypes are then created to demonstrate the way in which the functionality will be structured on pages throughout the web site. One of the final components of the process is the Third-Party System Audit and Review where the integration of the developed software with third-party platforms is tested. Finally, the Software Review and Selection aspect of the planning process takes a look at other software applications that could be leveraged that meet some or all of the goals outlined through the planning process.
Three Pillars of a Project
Normally, there are three elements to a project that drive it to its successful conclusion - budget, timeline and the functional scope. One element can influence the project more than another but it’s usually a combination of the three.
Defining a budget for development projects helps you allocate dollars towards different aspects of the overall deliverable as well as supplies an accurate cost projection. Developing a timeline creates a general understanding of the completion date and sets the pace of the project. Scope definition identifies project requirements and sets the baseline for performance measurement. All three elements are interchangeable. Quite often the budget restricts the scope or the scope affects the timeline. The challenge is making them all work together to create an end product that meets everyone’s expectations.
The Challenges of Requirements Planning
Budgets and timelines are usually the most frequent obstacles that are faced during the requirements planning process. The challenge of managing a limited budget and expeditious project completion is difficult because sacrificing quality is not an option.
Despite these challenges, the planning process is a critical component to web development. Without a plan set into place, you run the risk of creating a contentious working relationship between the parties involved. The requirements definition does not have to be extensive as long as you create a core foundation for your web development. You can always return as budget or timeline permits and extend the core as needed.
The requirements planning process sets the plan into motion and gets everyone on board, minimizing road bumps and maximizing dollars spent - ensuring you reach your final destination.