Recently we have a had a post about the difference between requirements verification and requirements validation - the activities that business analysts are responsible for.
Today let’s see the difference between the two with a practical example.
_____________________________________
Scenario: Creating a Customer Registration Page
Requirement: The system must allow users to register by providing a username, email, and password, and submit the information via a ‘Sign Up’ button.
This requirement is documented with a wireframe that visually outlines the layout, fields, and functionality of the registration page.
_____________________________________
Step 1: Requirements Verification
Verification focuses on ensuring that the requirement is clear, complete, and meets quality standards.
To verify this registration requirement:
Check Completeness: Is the wireframe fully detailed? It must include the username, email, and password fields, as well as a clearly labeled ‘Sign Up’ button. Does the wireframe show error messages for invalid inputs?
Adherence to Standards: Is the naming convention consistent? Are labels and instructions clear for users? For instance, if the organization follows a standard for form labeling (e.g., ‘Email Address’ instead of just ‘Email’), the wireframe should reflect that.
Technical Feasibility: Is the wireframe feasible to implement within the system constraints? Does the design match established guidelines, such as mobile responsiveness or security standards for passwords?
Outcome: If the requirement is clear, well-documented, and follows standards, it passes verification.
_____________________________________
Step 2: Requirements Validation
Validation ensures that the requirement aligns with business goals and user needs.
To validate this registration requirement:
Business Alignment: Does the registration form fulfill the business objective of easily onboarding new users? For example, does it meet the business’s need to collect user information without being overly complicated?
User Needs: Is the form intuitive for the target audience? Is there user feedback to confirm that the design provides a smooth registration experience? Does it only collect essential information to avoid deterring users from signing up?
Expected Outcomes: Does this requirement help achieve the desired outcome (i.e., increasing user registration rates)? Does it integrate smoothly into the user journey and encourage new users to complete the process?
Outcome: If the requirement contributes to business value and improves the user experience, it passes validation.
_____________________________________
Conclusion
While verification ensures the registration requirement meets quality and technical standards, validation confirms that it serves the intended business purpose and satisfies user needs.
_____________________________________
#BusinessAnalysis #RequirementsValidation #RequirementsVerification #Wireframes #BABOK #SystemDesign #QualityStandards #UserExperience #StakeholderEngagement #BusinessGoals #ProcessImprovement #BACommunity #TechDocumentation #BusinessAnalyst
Comments