Softwareeisen

Softwareeisen is a term occasionally used in German-language discussions of software engineering to denote a minimal, non-negotiable set of requirements that a software product must satisfy to be considered viable. The coinage blends Software with Eisen (iron), conveying the idea of ironclad, nonflexible constraints. It is not an established technical standard but rather a colloquial heuristic used in requirements gathering and project planning.

In practice, softwareeisen helps teams define scope early by identifying must-have features and compliance constraints that are essential for safety, legality, or core functionality. It is typically contrasted with softer priorities such as usability preferences or aesthetic choices, which may be deferred or traded off in an agile setting. The concept can guide prioritization, test planning, and contracts with stakeholders by making explicit which criteria are non-negotiable.

Limitations and criticisms include the risk of oversimplifying complex systems, preventing beneficial changes, and masking evolving requirements as fixed. Critics argue that calling something "iron" can hinder iterative development and neglect context-dependent trade-offs. Proponents caution that clearly stated softwareeisen can improve accountability and reduce scope creep when used transparently and in combination with a formal requirements process.

Typical elements might include data integrity guarantees, security controls, regulatory compliance, interoperability, performance targets, and fundamental reliability requirements. The exact content depends on domain, risk profile, and stakeholders. See also: requirements engineering, non-functional requirements, must-have.