Welcome to the world of requirement analysis! If you’re involved in software development, then you know that requirement analysis is an essential step in the process of creating a successful project. But, what exactly is requirement analysis and why is it so important?
Requirement analysis is the process of understanding and defining the needs of the user or client for a particular project.
It involves identifying the objectives of the project, determining the functional and non-functional requirements, and creating a clear and detailed specification of the project’s requirements.
Requirement Analysis Stages
A requirements analysis process involves the following steps:
1. Identify Problem
In this stage, we must know the background of the need for an information system built in an organization. Then we also have to know the extent of the scope of work to be completed by the information system later. We also have to know where to use the information system.
2. Identify User
At this stage, we must know what kind of information system the user needs to help his work; then we must also identify what functions or services the user wants in the information system to be built.
In this stage, two requirements are needed: functional and non-functional.
- Functional requirements include what features or functions must be provided by the information system to meet user needs.
- Non-functional requirements include system requirements specifications.
These limitations can be seen from several aspects, including Time, software, hardware, security system, user/user, user interface/system interface page, and performance.
3. Make Spesification Document
Software After going through stage 1 to stage 3, this is a critical stage, namely making an SKPL document where the use of the SKPL document will be a reference for the development team in the information system development process.
4. Review Needs
After creating the SKPL document, the SKPL is submitted to the user to be reviewed to determine whether it is to the user’s wishes.
Requirement Analysis Techniques
There are different techniques used for business Requirements Analysis. Below is a list of different business Requirements Analysis Techniques:
1. Business process modeling notation (BPMN)
2. UML (Unified Modeling Language)
3. Flowchart technique
4. Data flow diagram
5. Role Activity Diagrams (RAD)
6. Gantt Charts
7. IDEF (Integrated Definition for Function Modeling)
8. Gap Analysis
For more details, you can the the text below
1. Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN)
Business Process Modeling and Notation (BPMN) is a technique used to create graphical representations of business processes.
These diagrams, known as flowcharts, use a set of specific symbols and elements unique to BPMN.
The purpose of this technique is to make it easier to understand and analyze business processes. BPMN is widely used as a method for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of business processes.
2. Unified Modeling Language (UML)
Unified Modeling Language (UML) is a technique that uses a set of integrated diagrams to specify, visualize, construct, and document the components of a software system.
It is particularly useful for object-oriented software development and is an important aspect of the software development process.
UML utilizes graphical notations to represent the design of a software project and helps to validate the architectural design of the software.
3. Flowchart Tachnique
A flowchart is a diagram that illustrates the sequence and control logic of a series of related activities.
There are various types of flowcharts, including linear, cross-functional, and top-down. Flowcharts can be used to depict system interactions, data flows, and other processes.
They are simple to understand and can be used by both technical and non-technical team members. The flowchart technique is useful in highlighting the key aspects of a process.
4. Data Flow Diagram
Data Flow Diagram (DFD) is a technique used to graphically depict complex and intricate systems and processes.
It presents the flow of information through a system or process, including data inputs and outputs, data stores, and the various subprocesses through which the data moves.
DFD utilizes standardized notations and symbols to depict the entities and their relationships.
By visualizing all the elements of the system, it becomes easier to identify any shortcomings and improve the design to create a more robust solution.
5. Role Activity Diagrams (RAD)
Role-activity diagram (RAD) is a technique used to represent the role-oriented process model of an organization.
It is a high-level view that captures the dynamics and role structure of the organization. The RAD technique groups together activities into units of responsibilities called roles.
Activities are the basic components of a role and can be carried out independently or in coordination with other activities within the role.
6. Gantt Charts
Gantt charts are a type of visual tool used in project planning to represent scheduled tasks and their corresponding timelines.
They provide a clear overview of what tasks are set to be completed by a certain date. The Gantt chart allows all the tasks in a project to be viewed in a single glance, including their start and end dates.
7. IDEF (Integrated Definition for Function Modeling)
Integrated Definition for Function Modeling (IDEFM) is a technique that uses boxes to represent the functions of a process and their connections to parent and child systems. It serves as a blueprint for understanding the structure of an organization’s system.
8. Gap Analysis
Gap analysis is a technique used to evaluate the performance of a software application in relation to meeting business requirements.
It involves identifying any gaps in performance and determining the steps needed to fill those gaps. The term “gap” refers to the difference between the current state and the desired state.
Gap analysis is also known as need analysis, need assessment, or need-gap analysis.
Requirement Analysis Tools
There are several tools available that can be used to assist with the requirement analysis process. Some common examples include:
1. Prototyping tools
These tools are used to create interactive prototypes of the system, which can be used to gather feedback on requirements and make changes as necessary.
2. Collaboration tools
These tools are used to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, such as project management tools, issue tracking tools, and chat tools
3. Mind mapping tools
These tools can be used to create visual diagrams that can help to organize and structure complex information.
4. Requirement analysis
You can use tools like IBM Rational RequisitePro, CaliberRM, Borland Caliber, HP Quality Center are widely used.