What is a systems design specification?

A systems design specification serves as a comprehensive guide that articulates all the functional and non-functional requirements of a system. This document is essential as it provides a clear and detailed outline of what the system must do (functional requirements) and the criteria the system must meet for performance, usability, reliability, and security (non-functional requirements).

By documenting these specifications, it establishes a common understanding among stakeholders, including developers, project managers, and clients, and serves as a basis for system development and validation. It ensures that the resulting system aligns with user needs and business goals, guiding the design and development processes effectively. This rigorous detailing is vital in preventing scope creep and ensuring that timelines and budgets are adhered to.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of project management and do not specifically address the comprehensive scope of requirements that a systems design specification covers. For instance, managing team collaboration, summarizing project objectives, or identifying risks do not encapsulate the complete requirements needed for system design and development, which makes the first choice the most appropriate answer.