A Software Requirements Specification (SRS) is a crucial document in the
software development process, outlining the requirements for a software system
to be developed. The IEEE 830-1998 standard provides guidelines for writing an
SRS and ensuring that it is comprehensive and clear. Below is an outline for an
SRS document following the IEEE format, along with explanations and examples
for each section.
IEEE Format for Software Requirements Specification (SRS)
1. Introduction
• 1.1 Purpose: Describe the purpose of the SRS and the intended audience.
• 1.2 Scope: Detail what the software will do and what it will not do, including
objectives and goals.
• 1.3 Definitions, Acronyms, and Abbreviations: List key terms and their
definitions.
• 1.4 References: Cite any reference documents.
• 1.5 Overview: Provide a brief overview of the remaining sections of the
SRS.
Example:
kotlin
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to outline the requirements for the XYZ Software. It is
intended for use by the development team, project managers, and stakeholders.
1.2 Scope
The XYZ Software is designed to facilitate project management tasks including task
scheduling, team communication, and resource allocation. It will not handle accounting
functions.
2. Overall Description
• 2.1 Product Perspective: Describe how the product fits into the larger
system or how it interacts with other applications.
• 2.2 Product Functions: Summarize the main functions of the product.
• 2.3 User Classes and Characteristics: Identify the intended user groups
and their characteristics.
• 2.4 Operating Environment: Describe the hardware, software, and
networking environment for the product.
• 2.5 Design and Implementation Constraints: List any constraints that
could affect development or design.
• 2.6 Assumptions and Dependencies: Outline any assumptions made
during the requirements gathering and the dependencies on external
factors.
Example:
sql
2.1 Product Perspective
The XYZ Software will be a stand-alone application that interfaces with the ABC Database
for data storage.
2.2 Product Functions
The software will allow users to create tasks, assign them to team members, monitor
progress, and generate reports.
2.3 User Classes and Characteristics
- Project Managers: Users who will create and manage projects.
- Team Members: Users assigned to tasks.
- Administrators: Users with full control over the application settings.
3. Specific Requirements
• 3.1 Functional Requirements: Provide detailed descriptions of the
functions the software must perform. This can include Use Cases, user
stories, or detailed requirements.
• 3.2 Non-Functional Requirements: List requirements not related to
specific behaviors, such as performance, security, reliability, and usability.
• 3.3 Interface Requirements: Describe interfaces between the software
and other systems, hardware, or user interfaces.
• 3.4 System Features: Detail each system feature and its associated
requirements.
Example:
sql
3.1 Functional Requirements
- FR1: The system shall allow users to create tasks.
- FR2: The system shall enable users to assign tasks to team members.
- FR3: The system shall provide a dashboard view of all tasks and their statuses.
3.2 Non-Functional Requirements
- NFR1: The system shall support at least 100 concurrent users.
- NFR2: The application shall respond to user requests within 2 seconds under normal load.
3.3 Interface Requirements
- The system will use REST API for integration with external applications.
3.4 System Features
- Feature 1: Task Creation
- The user shall be able to enter task details, including title, description, and
deadlines.
4. External Interface Requirements
• Define interfaces with other hardware or software systems, providing
precise descriptions of interaction protocols.
• Include UI interfaces, API interfaces, and communication interfaces.
Example:
kotlin
4.1 User Interfaces
The user interface shall provide an intuitive design with navigation menus, dashboards, and
forms for task entry.
4.2 API Interfaces
The API shall support JSON-formatted requests for data exchange with third-party
applications.
5. System Requirements
• 5.1 Performance Requirements: Detail parameters such as throughput
and response time under load.
• 5.2 Security Requirements: Outline security measures, including user
authentication and data encryption.
• 5.3 Compliance Requirements: Identify any standards or regulations that
the software must adhere to.
6. Other Requirements
• Cover additional requirements that do not fit into the previous sections,
such as standards compliance or specific client requests.
7. Appendices
• Include supplementary information that supports the SRS but is not
crucial for understanding the requirements, such as glossary terms,
additional diagrams, or background information.
Conclusion
The IEEE format for an SRS provides a structured approach to documenting
software requirements that enhances clarity and communication among
stakeholders. By following this format, you ensure that all essential aspects of the
software are captured comprehensively.
