Addressing compliance and safety specifications

Compliance and safety specifications ensure that a product meets legal, ethical, and technical standards before it reaches users. These documents outline the rules a product must follow to be approved, distributed, or used safely within its market. They can include accessibility requirements, data protection laws, environmental standards, or security certifications that apply to both digital and physical products.

For example, a medical app must comply with data privacy regulations that control how patient information is stored and shared. A connected device may require electrical safety or wireless certification before entering certain regions. By documenting these requirements early, teams prevent costly redesigns and delays caused by failing to meet compliance standards later in development.

These specifications also act as safeguards for users and the company. They reduce legal risks, protect user trust, and help maintain consistency across different markets and versions of a product. Clear compliance documentation ensures that every feature is both functional and responsible.^[1]