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What is Software Requirements Specification (SRS) ?

What is Software Requirements Specification

(SRS) ?

A Software Requirements Specification (SRS) is a detailed document that describes the functional and non-functional requirements of a software system. It serves as a blueprint for developers, testers, and stakeholders, ensuring everyone has a clear understanding of what the software should do and how it should perform. The SRS is a critical part of the software development lifecycle (SDLC) and acts as a contract between the development team and the stakeholders.

Purpose of SRS

  • Define Requirements: Clearly outline what the software should achieve.
  • Guide Development: Provide a roadmap for developers to build the system.
  • Ensure Alignment: Ensure all stakeholders (business, development, testing teams) are on the same page.
  • Facilitate Testing: Help testers create test cases to validate the system.
  • Serve as a Reference: Act as a single source of truth for the project’s requirements.

Key Components of an SRS

An SRS typically includes the following sections:

1. Introduction

  • Purpose: Why the document is being created.
  • Scope: What the software will and will not do.
  • Definitions: Key terms and acronyms used in the document.
  • References: Links to related documents (e.g., BRD, project charter).
  • Overview: A high-level summary of the document.

2. Overall Description

  • Product Perspective: How the software fits into the larger system or business environment.
  • Product Functions: High-level features and functionalities.
  • User Characteristics: Who will use the system and their needs.
  • Constraints: Limitations (e.g., technology, budget, time).
  • Assumptions and Dependencies: Factors that may impact the project.

3. Specific Requirements

  • Functional Requirements: Detailed descriptions of what the system should do. Example: “The system shall allow users to log in with a username and password.”
  • Non-Functional Requirements: Criteria for how the system should perform. Example: “The system shall handle 1,000 concurrent users.”
  • System Features: Breakdown of major features and their requirements.
  • External Interface Requirements: How the system interacts with other systems or users.
  • Performance Requirements: Speed, scalability, and responsiveness expectations.
  • Security Requirements: Measures to protect data and ensure privacy.
  • Usability Requirements: Ease of use and accessibility.

4. Appendices

  • Glossary: Definitions of technical terms.
  • Diagrams: Visual aids like use case diagrams, flowcharts, or wireframes.

Example of an SRS for a Login System

1. Introduction

  • Purpose: This document describes the requirements for a user login system for the XYZ application.
  • Scope: The login system will allow users to authenticate using their email and password.
  • Definitions:

– Authentication: The process of verifying a user’s identity.

– Authorization: The process of granting access to resources based on user roles.

  • References: XYZ Project Charter, User Stories.
  • Overview: The login system will integrate with the existing XYZ application and provide secure access to users.

2. Overall Description

  • Product Perspective: The login system is a module of the XYZ application.
  • Product Functions:
    • User login with email and password.
    • Password recovery.
    • Role-based access control.
  • User Characteristics: End-users include administrators, employees, and customers.
  • Constraints: The system must comply with GDPR regulations.
  • Assumptions: Users will have valid email addresses.

3. Specific Requirements

  • Functional Requirements:
    • FR-001: The system shall allow users to log in with a valid email and password.
    • FR-002: The system shall display an error message for invalid credentials.
    • FR-003: The system shall allow users to reset their password via email.
  • Non-Functional Requirements:
    • NFR-001: The system shall respond to login requests within 2 seconds.
    • NFR-002: The system shall support up to 10,000 concurrent users.
  • System Features:
    • Secure password storage using hashing.
    • Session management to prevent unauthorized access.
  • External Interface Requirements: REST API for integration with the XYZ application.
  • Performance Requirements: The system shall handle 100 login requests per second.
  • Security Requirements: Passwords shall be encrypted using SHA-256.
  • Usability Requirements: The login page shall be mobile-friendly.

4. Appendices

  • Glossary: Definitions of technical terms.
  • Diagrams: Use case diagram for login and password recovery.

Benefits of an SRS

  1. Clarity: Provides a clear and detailed description of the system.
  2. Reduces Ambiguity: Minimizes misunderstandings between stakeholders and developers.
  3. Improves Quality: Ensures all requirements are met, leading to a high-quality product.
  4. Facilitates Communication: Acts as a common reference for all project participants.
  5. Supports Maintenance: Helps in future updates and maintenance of the system.

Best Practices for Writing an SRS

  1. Involve Stakeholders: Collaborate with business analysts, developers, and end-users to gather requirements.
  2. Be Specific: Avoid vague language; use clear and precise descriptions.
  3. Use Visuals: Include diagrams, flowcharts, and wireframes to enhance understanding.
  4. Review and Validate: Regularly review the document with stakeholders to ensure accuracy.
  5. Keep It Updated: Update the SRS as requirements evolve during the project.

In summary, a Software Requirements Specification (SRS) is a comprehensive document that defines the what, why, and how of a software system. It ensures that the development team builds the right product and meets stakeholder expectations.

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