You do not need a technical specification to start a software project. But a short, clear brief helps suppliers understand what you need and makes their proposals easier to compare.
1. The problem
Describe the problem you are solving and who has it. Why does it matter now? What happens if nothing changes?
2. The users
Who will use the product, and what do they need to achieve? Include customers, staff and administrators.
3. Must-haves and nice-to-haves
List the essential features for launch, then the ones that can wait. This single step improves quotes more than anything else.
4. Existing systems
Note the tools the product must connect to — CRM, accounting, payments, booking — and any data that needs migrating.
5. Budget and timeline
Share a budget range and any fixed dates. It lets suppliers propose realistic options rather than guessing.
6. How you will measure success
What result would make this project a success in six months? More sales, fewer hours of admin, a funded start-up?
Not sure about some answers? That is normal — it is exactly what a discovery workshop is for. Send us what you have and we will help fill the gaps.
