What is typically included in the requirements documentation?

Requirements documentation serves as a comprehensive blueprint for what a system should achieve, which includes both functional and non-functional requirements. Functional requirements describe what the system must do, detailing specific behaviors, functionalities, and the processes that must be performed. For example, functional requirements might outline user interactions, data processing rules, and system responses to certain inputs.

On the other hand, non-functional requirements specify the criteria that judge the operation of a system, covering aspects such as performance, reliability, security, usability, and compliance. These are crucial because they determine how well the system performs its functions rather than defining what those functions are.

Incorporating both types of requirements ensures that the system is designed not only to meet user needs but also to operate efficiently and effectively in its intended environment. This holistic approach minimizes the risk of overlooking critical aspects of system performance and user satisfaction, leading to a more successful project outcome.