Types of

Software
Requirements
GROUP-9
HUSSNAIN, TOUSEEF, AHAD
Definition of Software Requirements

 Software requirements are specifications that

define what a software system must
accomplish. They articulate the
functionalities, features, and constraints that
the software should exhibit to meet user
needs and organizational goals.
1. Functional Requirements

 Functional requirements define what a software system must

accomplish in terms of specific features, capabilities, and
operations. These requirements articulate the various tasks and
functionalities the software should perform to meet user needs and
organizational goals. Functional requirements serve as a roadmap
for the development team, guiding the design, implementation,
and testing phases of the software development life cycle. They
answer the question, "What tasks and activities should the software
perform?" and provide a detailed specification of the system's
behavior and functionality. Examples of functional requirements
include user authentication, data processing, report generation,
and any other specific features that contribute to the overall
functionality of the software.
2. Non-Functional Requirements
 Non-functional requirements specify how well the
software performs certain functions rather than what
those functions are. These requirements define the
attributes that characterize the system's overall
behavior, quality, and performance. They encompass
aspects such as reliability, usability, performance,
security, and scalability. Non-functional requirements
guide the development team in creating a system
that not only meets functional expectations but also
delivers a user experience aligned with broader
quality standards. Unlike functional requirements,
which focus on specific features, non-functional
requirements address the "how" of system behavior
and contribute to its overall effectiveness.
 Examples of non-functional requirements include
response time, system availability, user interface
design, security protocols, and the ability to handle a
specific number of concurrent users. These
requirements play a critical role in shaping the user
experience and ensuring the software's success in its
intended environment.
3. User Requirements

 User requirements articulate the needs, expectations, and preferences of

end-users in a software system. These requirements focus on the
functionalities and features that users anticipate from the software to fulfill
their specific tasks and objectives. User requirements are expressed in
user-friendly language, ensuring that both technical and non-technical
stakeholders can understand and validate them. They serve as a critical
link between the development team and the individuals who will interact
with the software, guiding the design and development process to create
a product that aligns with user expectations. User requirements answer the
question, "What do users expect from the software?" and provide valuable
insights into the user experience.
 Examples of user requirements include intuitive navigation, user-friendly
interfaces, specific functionalities required to complete tasks, and any
other elements that contribute to a positive and efficient user experience.
These requirements play a vital role in ensuring that the software is not
only technically robust but also meets the practical needs of its intended
users.
4. System Requirements
 System requirements refer to the detailed specifications and
conditions that define the technological environment in which a
software system will operate. These requirements outline the
necessary hardware, software, network, and infrastructure
components that the software relies on for proper functioning.
System requirements play a crucial role in guiding decisions related
to deployment, integration, and maintenance of the software,
ensuring that it operates effectively within a specified environment.
 In essence, system requirements provide a blueprint for the
technical aspects of the software, detailing the platform and
conditions necessary to support its functionalities. Examples of
system requirements include supported operating systems,
hardware specifications, network configurations, database
compatibility, and any other technical prerequisites essential for the
successful deployment and operation of the software.
5. Business Requirements
Business requirements represent the strategic needs and objectives of
an organization that the software solution aims to address. These
requirements ensure that the software aligns with broader business
goals, contributing to the overall success and effectiveness of the
organization. Business requirements provide a high-level view of the
desired outcomes and benefits the software should deliver,
connecting the development process to the strategic priorities of the
business.
 Examples of business requirements include improvements in
operational efficiency, increased revenue, cost reduction,
compliance with industry standards, and other objectives that
directly impact the organization's success. These requirements serve
as a guide for the development team to create a software solution
that not only meets technical specifications but also provides
tangible value to the business. Business requirements answer the
question, "How does the software support the strategic goals of the
organization?"
6. Quality of Service (QoS)
Requirements
 Quality of Service (QoS) requirements refer to specific criteria and
expectations that define the level of service and performance a
software system should deliver. These requirements focus on non-
functional aspects related to the system's quality, emphasizing
attributes such as reliability, responsiveness, availability, and overall
user satisfaction. QoS requirements are essential for ensuring that the
software meets or exceeds certain performance standards and
provides a positive experience for users.
 Examples of QoS requirements include maximum response times,
minimum system availability percentages, acceptable error rates,
and other metrics that directly impact the reliability and
performance of the software. These requirements guide the
development team in creating a system that not only functions
correctly but also delivers a high level of service in terms of speed,
reliability, and overall user experience.
7. Regulatory Requirements

 Regulatory requirements are specifications that ensure a software

system complies with legal and industry regulations. These
requirements outline the standards and guidelines the software must
adhere to in order to meet legal obligations, industry standards, and
any relevant certifications. Regulatory requirements are crucial for
industries where adherence to specific rules and regulations is
mandatory to ensure legality, security, and ethical conduct.
 Examples of regulatory requirements include compliance with data
protection laws, industry-specific standards, privacy regulations, and
any other legal mandates that pertain to the software's operation
and data handling practices. Meeting regulatory requirements is
essential not only for legal compliance but also for maintaining trust
and credibility in the eyes of users, stakeholders, and regulatory
authorities.
8. Interface Requirements
"Interface requirements specify how the software system will interact
with other systems, modules, or external components. These
requirements detail the protocols, data formats, and communication
methods necessary for seamless integration and collaboration with
external entities. Interface requirements ensure that the software can
exchange data and function effectively within its broader
technological ecosystem.
Examples of interface requirements include API specifications, data
exchange formats, communication protocols, and any other details
related to the integration points between the software and external
components. Properly defined interface requirements facilitate
interoperability, allowing the software to work cohesively with other
systems or services in a way that meets both functional and data
exchange needs.
9. Performance Requirements
 Performance requirements specify the expected efficiency, speed,
and responsiveness of a software system. These requirements define
the criteria that the software must meet in terms of execution speed,
processing capacity, and resource utilization. Performance
requirements ensure that the software can handle anticipated
workloads and deliver a level of responsiveness that meets or
exceeds user expectations.
 Examples of performance requirements include response time
targets, throughput expectations, system scalability under increasing
loads, and resource utilization limits. These requirements are crucial
for designing and optimizing the software to operate efficiently,
particularly in scenarios where high performance is essential, such as
real-time applications or systems with large user bases. Performance
requirements contribute to a positive user experience and the
overall effectiveness of the software solution.
10. Security Requirements

 Security requirements outline the measures and safeguards that a

software system must implement to protect against unauthorized
access, data breaches, and other security threats. These
requirements address the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of
data and ensure that the software adheres to established security
standards and practices.
 Examples of security requirements include user authentication
protocols, access control mechanisms, encryption standards, audit
trails, and other security measures that safeguard sensitive
information and prevent malicious activities. Security requirements
play a critical role in mitigating risks and vulnerabilities, helping to
create a secure environment for the software and its users. Meeting
these requirements is essential for ensuring the trustworthiness and
reliability of the software system.
11. Usability Requirements:
 Usability requirements focus on ensuring that a software system is
designed and implemented to be user-friendly, intuitive, and
effective in meeting user needs. These requirements address the
aspects of the user experience, including ease of use, learnability,
efficiency, and overall user satisfaction. Usability requirements aim to
create a positive and efficient
: interaction between users and the
software.
 Examples of usability requirements include intuitive user interfaces,
clear navigation paths, concise and understandable error
messages, and support for accessibility features. These requirements
often involve aspects such as user training, help documentation,
and feedback mechanisms to enhance the overall usability of the
software. Meeting usability requirements is essential for ensuring that
the software is not only technically robust but also practical and
enjoyable for its users.
12. Compatibility Requirements:
 Compatibility requirements specify the conditions and standards
that a software system must meet to operate effectively within a
particular computing environment. These requirements address
compatibility with hardware, software, and other external
components, ensuring that the software can seamlessly integrate
and function in diverse scenarios.
 Examples of compatibility requirements include compatibility with
specific operating systems, browsers, databases, and other third-
party tools. These requirements aim to guarantee that the software
behaves consistently across different platforms and configurations.
Meeting compatibility requirements is crucial for maximizing the
reach and usability of the software, particularly in environments with
varying technology stacks and user preferences.