In the dynamic world of software development, the decision-making process is often complex and multifaceted. Today, I want to delve into three critical aspects of this process: requirements, qualities, and, most crucially, the context. These elements are the bedrock of successful software development, yet their interplay is often misunderstood or overlooked.
Requirements: The Backbone of Software Development
Requirements are the foundation upon which software is built. They come in two forms:
Functional Requirements FR: These are concrete and specific. For instance, consider a requirement for a red button on a webpage that triggers a specific action when clicked. These are the tangible features and functions that a client or business department explicitly demands.
Non-Functional Requirements (Qualities) NFR: These are the "ilities" – attributes like maintainability, scalability, and sustainability. These qualities guide the application throughout its lifecycle and are crucial for long-term success. Unlike functional requirements, which may evolve over time, qualities typically remain constant, underscoring the application’s long-term vision.
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