Definition:
A software requirement specification document (SRS) is basically defined as a document which includes what is a software about , how it is going to be developed and what are its functionalities. This document ensures that it completes all user needs and should be stated clearly.
Importance:
The SRS helps in getting the clear picture of software which is going to be developed .Also it helps in following:
- The development work is minimized , as the requirements and modules are clear with no ambiguity.
- It helps in time management.
- The main modules are break down into smaller modules and the details are understandable at core levels.
- The SRS is used as main document for validation and verification after the development of software.
- It regularly involves customers so their requirements are thoroughly gathered.
Main Modules:
An SRS has following main modules:
- Introduction.
- Purpose
- Target audience
- Scope of the project
- Functional requirements.
- Non-functional requirements.
- Use cases and other UML diagrams like ERD, class diagrams and flow charts.
- Data dictionary.
- Conclusion.
Guidelines to write:
- In the introduction , mention the main idea of the software for which you are writing the document.
- Now include the purpose and reason behind using that software . Explain the reasons and advantages and use specific words to ensure that customer needs your software.
- Include all of the stakeholders which are going to be involved in software development and documentation process. They include users , developers , testers and businessmen who have stake in your software.
- Now add the scope of software . It consists of all limitations and border lines which your software application can do. Also mention those functionalities which your software is not capable of working.
- Now add the functional requirements of software. They include all basic functionalities of software.
- Non-functional requirements are those which are not functional in nature but are important for the software application , for example , security , maintenance and usability.
- Add the class diagrams and database diagrams to have clear picture of software architecture.
- Use data dictionary which includes all technical words used in the document with their meanings.
- Add conclusion paragraph with summary of all the content you have used in the main body of document.
Conclusion:
A software requirement specification document is a very important document while developing a software. Therefor using above guidelines you can easily develop it with minimum difficulty and efforts.
