"Define what the product will do before you design how the product will do it."
- Alan Cooper
Once the scope of your vision and product are better defined, the next step is to develop a detailed product roadmap, which outlines the specific requirements and planning for the software. This involves identifying and detailing what the software needs to do (functional requirements) and how it should perform (non-functional requirements).
Here are the main tasks to create your first roadmap.
THE MAIN TASKS FOR CREATING YOUR FIRST ROADMAP
Here's what your plan should include:
1. IDENTIFY REQUIREMENTS
Define the core functionalities of the software known as Functional Requirements. For instance, a project management app should allow users to add, edit, and delete tasks.
Specify performance criteria and constraints known as Non-Functional Requirements. For example, the app should load quickly and function offline.
2. GATHER REQUIREMENTS
Engage with users, clients, and other stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations.
Develop user stories and use cases that detail specific functions the software must support.
Outline performance, security, and usability standards.
Compile all functional and non-functional requirements into a comprehensive document that guides the development process.
4. IDENTIFY REQUIREMENTS
Classify requirements based on importance and feasibility using the prioritization method of your choice (MoSCoW Analysis, Weighted Scoring, ICE Scoring, etc.).
5. REVIEW AND VALIDATE
Review requirements with stakeholders to ensure accuracy and alignment with their needs.
Obtain formal sign-off on the requirements specification to proceed with development.
6. DEVELOP ROADMAP
Establish key milestones, timelines, and deliverables to track progress and ensure timely completion of the project.
Organize you backlog to ensure priorities are clear, helping your team stay focused on delivering the most valuable features efficiently.
