Is a list of requirements an adequate way to address Requirements Development and Management (RDM) practice 2.5?

The rationale for considering a list of requirements as inadequate in addressing the Requirements Development and Management (RDM) practice 2.5 lies in the understanding that effective requirements management encompasses much more than simply compiling a list. The practice emphasizes the importance of clearly defining, analyzing, documenting, and managing requirements throughout the project lifecycle.

A list of requirements alone does not provide the necessary context, traceability, or validation processes to ensure that the requirements are understood, agreed upon, and feasible. Proper requirements development involves continuous engagement with stakeholders, eliciting feedback, refining requirements iteratively, and ensuring alignment with project goals. This depth of management ensures that requirements can evolve as needed and that they meet the quality standards necessary for successful project outcomes.

Furthermore, practice 2.5 typically emphasizes managing the relationships between requirements and the system design, risks, and validation criteria, which cannot be captured fully in a mere list. If requirements are not properly managed, there is a significant risk of project failure due to miscommunication, scope creep, and ambiguity—issues that a simple list would not adequately address.