Chapter 6: Needs and Requirements

This chapter focuses on introducing one of the most important techniques associated with MBSE, that of modeling needs and requirements.

Understanding needs is crucial to the success of any system as they provide the definition of all aspects of the system, such as the intended use, performance, function, form, and intent of the system.

Without understanding the needs of a system, it is impossible to say whether the delivered system is fit for purpose. This is because the purpose of that system is not known, as it is the needs that describe its purpose. Therefore, it is crucial that all needs are well defined and also that they are well understood by all of the stakeholders of the system. This is important as different stakeholders may interpret these need statements in different ways, depending on their context. Indeed, the topic of context will be described in detail as it is one of the most important aspects that must be clearly specified...