Examining flexibility and stability

Product requirements and specifications differ in how much they can change as the project evolves. Requirements are adaptable. They may shift as new user insights, market feedback, or technical constraints emerge. This flexibility is important early in development, allowing the team to refine priorities or add missing features before investing in full execution.

Specifications are much less flexible. Once development starts, frequent changes can cause confusion or rework. Since specifications define the technical path, stability ensures that every team works toward the same measurable standards. Updates happen only when absolutely necessary, such as addressing a compliance issue or a design flaw. Managing both documents means finding the right balance: adjusting requirements as the vision evolves, while keeping specifications stable enough for reliable delivery.