Requirements validation involves a systematic comparison of the implemented solution with the original business requirements. The business analyst plays a key role by ensuring the correct formalization of requirements, establishing acceptance criteria, and actively participating in acceptance testing. If discrepancies are found, the analyst documents defects, investigates their causes (incorrect implementation, misunderstood requirements, changed business processes), and assists in determining the correct steps for correction or further negotiation of changes.
Key features:
Can a business analyst fully delegate the task of requirements validation to a tester or QA team?
No, although QA tests the system, the analyst is responsible for the product's compliance with business requirements. They possess expertise in the business context.
Is it acceptable to release a product if all functional requirements are met but non-functional requirements are not considered?
No, failing to meet non-functional requirements (performance, security, usability) will lead to rejection of operation or user dissatisfaction.
Can requirements be considered validated if they are not formalized and exist only as verbal agreements?
No, requirements must be clearly documented and formalized; verbal agreements often lead to misunderstandings and errors.
Negative case: Accepting results based on a demo from the developer without prior formalization and agreement on acceptance criteria. Pros: Quickly completed the acceptance phase Cons: Later identified numerous unaccounted nuances, leading to a conflict with the client.
Positive case: Formalized requirements, signed a requirements document with the client, created checklists, and conducted acceptance tests with the client. All comments were documented and corrected. Pros: Minimum misunderstandings, transparent process for both parties, reduced risks of disputes. Cons: The process of agreement and testing turned out to be longer than planned.