I'm building a web-based learning management system for an educational institute, and this is my first project for a paying client. I proposed using the platform to support online teaching, and they agreed. Before development begins, should I create a formal Software Requirements Specification, or is that mainly an academic exercise? I want to make sure the institute and I agree on the expected features, responsibilities, and definition of "complete" without creating unnecessary paperwork.
2 Answers
You need some clear way to agree on what the system must do and when the project is finished. A formal SRS is one option, but it could also be a requirements document, task tracker, or another format that you can export into a summary later. The important part is that both sides approve the scope and have a shared definition of “done,” especially when payment depends on completion.
For a first client project, you probably don’t need a huge textbook-style SRS. However, definitely write down the main roles, workflows, and features—for example, student and instructor accounts, course management, assignments, grading, and reporting. Have the institute review and approve it before you build, so new requests during development can be treated as scope changes rather than assumed responsibilities.
Exactly—it functions as an agreement between the client and developer, even if you don’t use the formal SRS template from school.