Explore a detailed example of web application requirements including both functional and non-functional aspects. Ideal for developers, project managers, and clients planning a web app.
Creating a successful web application starts with a clear understanding of what needs to be built. Whether you're a developer, business owner, or project manager, having well-defined web application requirements ensures that everyone involved knows what to expect. In this blog post, we'll walk you through a detailed example of web application requirements ā covering both functional and non-functional aspects ā to help you plan your next project with confidence.
Why Web Application Requirements Matter
Web application requirements are critical for aligning stakeholders, estimating budgets, avoiding scope creep, and ensuring the final product meets the intended goals. Without proper requirements, even the most talented development teams can miss the mark, resulting in costly revisions or project failures.
Well-documented requirements help:
Reduce miscommunication between teams
Serve as a contract or agreement between client and developer
Improve time and cost estimations
Guide UI/UX design and software architecture
Ensure quality assurance and testing processes are streamlined
Types of Requirements
Functional Requirements
These define what the application should do. They describe specific behaviors, features, and interactions.
Examples:
User registration and login
Admin dashboard
Data filtering and search
Non-Functional Requirements
These describe how the system performs certain operations or behaves under certain conditions.
Examples:
Security
Performance
Scalability
Compatibility
Web Application Requirements Example: Project Overview
Project Name: QuickHire
Description:
QuickHire is a web-based platform that connects job seekers with employers. It offers job listing, application tracking, and communication tools.
Functional Requirements (with Examples)
User Registration and Authentication
Users can register as job seekers or employers.
Email verification is required after registration.
Users must be able to log in and out securely.
Password reset functionality must be available.
User Roles and Permissions
Job Seekers: Can create profiles, upload resumes, search and apply for jobs.
Employers: Can create company profiles, post jobs, and manage applicants.
Admin: Can manage users, review flagged content, and generate reports.
Profile Management
Job Seekers can add personal details, skills, education, and work experience.
Employers can manage company descriptions, logos, and social media links.
Job Posting and Management
Employers can post job listings with fields like job title, description, salary, and location.
Employers can edit, delete, or pause job listings.
Jobs expire automatically after 30 days unless renewed.
Job Search and Filters
Job Seekers can search for jobs using keywords, location, and categories.
Filters for salary range, full-time/part-time, and remote options must be included.
Application Process
Job Seekers can apply to a job with one click if their profile is complete.
Employers receive notifications and can view applicant profiles.
Notifications
Users receive email and in-app notifications for actions like application submission, new job matches, and messages.
Messaging System
Employers and job seekers can communicate via an internal messaging system.
Admin can monitor messages for abusive content.
Admin Dashboard
Admins can view statistics (e.g., total users, active jobs).
Admins can suspend accounts or delete inappropriate job listings.
Access to logs and reports is provided.
Non-Functional Requirements
Performance: Pages should load in under 3 seconds.
Security: HTTPS, hashed passwords, CAPTCHA, and account lockout.
Scalability: Handle 10,000 concurrent users using microservices.
Availability: 99.9% uptime with scheduled maintenance alerts.
Usability: Fully responsive design for all screen sizes.
Compatibility: Support for major browsers and mobile platforms.
Maintainability: Modular codebase with proper documentation.
Tools and Technologies
Frontend: React.js, Tailwind CSS
Backend: Node.js, Express.js
Database: PostgreSQL, Redis
Authentication: JWT, OAuth 2.0
Hosting: AWS (EC2, RDS, S3), Vercel
CI/CD: GitHub Actions, Docker
Monitoring: Sentry, New Relic
Sample Use Case Scenario
Use Case: Job Seeker Applying for a Job
User signs up as a job seeker.
They verify their email.
They complete their profile and upload a resume.
They search for āFrontend Developerā jobs near their city.
They apply to a job listing with a single click.
The employer receives a notification and checks the applicantās profile.
A message is sent by the employer to schedule an interview.
Tips for Writing Good Requirements
Be Specific: Avoid vague language like āfastā.
Use Acceptance Criteria: Define how success is measured.
Keep the User in Mind: Focus on real-world tasks.
Use Visual Aids: Include wireframes or diagrams if possible.
Version Control: Track changes in requirement documents.
Final Thoughts
Defining clear and detailed web application requirements is the foundation of a successful project. Whether you're building a simple blog or a complex job board like QuickHire, knowing what to expect from your application ā and documenting it thoroughly ā helps everyone involved work more effectively.
This example can serve as a template for your next project. Tailor the requirements to your specific business logic, user needs, and technical capabilities. When done right, solid requirements will save time, reduce costs, and lead to a more user-friendly and robust product.
