Determining specifications

Process

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Definition

Turning requirements into a detailed description of what the software will do: inputs, processes, outputs, data, performance, technical needs and compliance. Tools include IPO charts, data dictionaries and Gantt charts.

Example: Requirements say WHAT the client wants; specifications say exactly HOW WELL and in WHAT FORM the software will deliver it.

Found in: syllabus, school notes.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y11 Programming Fundamentals.

Question types it can appear in

Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Short answer: Describe how specifications differ from requirements

Where it has appeared in the paper

Secure Software Architecture (Part C). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“Turning requirements into a detailed description of what the software will do: inputs, processes, outputs, data, performance, technical needs and compliance.” Then apply it: Requirements say WHAT the client wants; specifications say exactly HOW WELL and in WHAT FORM the software will deliver it.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Go deeper

Flashcard: Determining specifications in Programming Fundamentals (Year 11) · study that set
Memorise: Software development steps and algorithm design
Notes: Interpret and apply fundamental software development steps to develop secure code,… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: Fundamental software development steps for secure code (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: Software development steps and algorithm design (Year 11 content (Programming fundamentals, OOP, Mechatronics))
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Determining specifications

Check yourself

Say the steps or stages of “Determining specifications” in order.

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