Functional Specifications
Functional specifications are detailed documents that describe the intended behavior, features, and requirements of a software system from a user's perspective. They outline what the system should do, including inputs, outputs, processes, and user interactions, without specifying implementation details. These documents serve as a blueprint for developers, designers, and stakeholders to ensure alignment on project goals and functionality.
Developers should learn and use functional specifications to clarify project requirements, reduce ambiguity, and prevent scope creep during development. They are essential in waterfall methodologies and formal project management contexts, such as government contracts or large enterprise systems, where clear documentation is required for compliance and communication. By referencing functional specifications, developers can ensure their code meets user needs and facilitates testing and validation.