The main difference between need and requirement is that needs are goals and objectives a business must achieve, whereas requirements are the things we need to do in order to achieve a need.
We sometimes use the two words need and requirement interchangeably. However, in a business context, needs and requirements are two separate entities and converting business needs into specific, measurable, relevant requirements is very important for the success of a business.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is a Need
– Definition, Features, Examples
2. What is a Requirement
– Definition, Features, Examples
3. Difference Between Need and Requirement
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Business, Business Needs, Need, Requirement, Business Requirements
What is a Need
A need basically refers to something that is wanted or a circumstance in which something is necessary. In a general context, we use the word need(s) to refer to things that are necessary for an organism to live its life. For example, food and water are basic needs of a human. There is a distinct difference between needs and wants.
However, in a business context, the term need has a different definition. In a business, needs are the goals and objectives the business must achieve to operate, to make profits, to serve effectively, and successfully deliver its mission. In other words, needs refer to the end results the business hopes to achieve.
Business needs that are defined at the highest level may include capability needs; for example, delivering a suite of products, assisting others in need, ensuring the business’s operational effectiveness, etc. They may also include improvement needs, which involve suggestions to decrease costs, effort, or time-to-market. We can segregate needs into lower-level, detailed requirements.
What is a Requirement
Requirements are the things we need to do in order to achieve a need or goal. In other words, needs are high-level requirements that are separated into lower-level and more detailed requirements. Therefore, one business can have more than one specific requirement.
A business requirement defines business needs and criteria of its success. Requirements define and specify why a business objective is needed, it’s benefits, how, when, where it will take place, and what standards are used to evaluate it. Furthermore, converting business needs into specific, measurable, relevant requirements can help to achieve the goals and objectives of a business.
Need vs Require – The Verb Usage
When considering the two verbs need and require in a general context, always remember that we usually use the verb need with a living entity and the verb require with non-living entities. Observe the following sentences to understand the above concept more clearly.
I need to learn computer skills.
My job requires advanced computer skills.
The meeting will require at least another hour.
Her boss needs a new secretary.
Difference Between Need and Requirement
Definition
Business needs are goals and objectives a business must achieve, whereas requirements are the things we need to do in order to achieve a need.
Relationship
Needs can be segregated into lower-level, detailed requirements.
Nature
Requirements are more specific and detailed than needs.
Conclusion
In a business context, needs and requirements are two separate entities. The main difference between need and requirement is that needs are goals and objectives a business must achieve, whereas requirements are the things we need to do in order to achieve a need. Converting business needs into specific, measurable, relevant requirements is very important for the success of a business.
Reference:
1.“How to Define Business Needs through Business Analysis.” Dummies – Business.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Requirement” By Nick Youngson (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Blue Diamond Gallery
2. “Group of diverse people having a business meeting” (CC0) via Pxhere
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