What defines a requirements document?

A requirements document is characterized by its formal scope and specification agreement. This document serves as a foundational reference that outlines the functions, features, and constraints of a project or product. It provides a clear and structured representation of what is expected to be delivered, ensuring that all stakeholders have a mutual understanding of the project's goals and requirements.

By detailing specifications, the document helps in guiding the development process, facilitating communication among team members, and setting expectations for project outcomes. This formalization is crucial for managing project risk and ensuring that all parties are aligned on objectives and deliverables.

In contrast, informal discussions of ideas lack the structure and specificity necessary for a requirements document, making them less effective for guiding project development. A list of potential stakeholders, while important for project planning, does not define the project requirements themselves. Similarly, a prototype is a tangible representation of a final product but does not encapsulate the detailed requirements that guide its creation. Thus, the formal scope and specification agreement is what truly defines a requirements document.