A successful custom software project doesn’t start with code — it starts with clarity. The more clearly you define what you want to build, the easier it is for your development team to deliver the right solution, on time and within budget.

That’s where a Software Requirements Document (SRD) comes in. Whether you call it a spec, a scope, or a brief, a well-structured SRD sets expectations, reduces risk, and accelerates development.

Here’s what great requirements documents include — and why they matter.

Start with the “Why,” Not Just the “What”

A good SRD doesn’t just list features — it explains the business goals behind them. Why are you building this? What’s the pain point you’re solving? Who is the user?

When your development team understands the context, they can suggest better solutions, flag risks earlier, and avoid overbuilding.

Define Your Core Features, Not Every Detail

You don’t need to map out every button and screen — that’s part of the design process. But you should define:

• The primary workflows or user actions

• Key data inputs and outputs

• Third-party tools or systems that need to be integrated

• Any regulatory, security, or compliance requirements

Focus on what the software must do, not how it should look. You can always refine the UI later.

Be Honest About What’s Unknown

You don’t need all the answers up front. In fact, a good SRD often includes open questions, assumptions, or areas needing validation.

This helps your partner know where to explore, where to prototype, and where to involve stakeholders before development begins.

Ambiguity isn’t the enemy — silence is.

Include Any Constraints That Matter

Even if your feature list is flexible, there may be limits your developers need to know:

• Required launch date

• Target platforms (web, mobile, internal use)

• Budget guidelines or internal approval steps

• Existing tools or vendors you need to work with

Constraints aren’t roadblocks — they’re guideposts. A great partner will help you work within them.

Keep It Collaborative, Not Final

Your SRD isn’t a contract. It’s a conversation starter.

At Decision Point Software, we help clients turn rough outlines into detailed plans — and detailed plans into working software. The best projects start when everyone’s aligned before a single line of code is written.

Request a Free Consultation Today

If you’re planning a custom software project, we can help you shape your requirements, even if you’re starting from scratch. Let’s talk about your goals, challenges, and ideas — and turn them into a clear plan of action.