konseptidokumentti

Konseptidokumentti, or concept document, is a high-level written statement used in Finnish project and product development to describe the core idea, goals, and approach of a proposed initiative before detailed design or procurement begins. It serves to communicate the concept to diverse stakeholders and to support early decision-making and resource allocation.

It typically includes the problem statement, a description of the proposed solution, the intended scope and boundaries, key stakeholders and user groups, high-level requirements, success criteria, and an outline of risks, assumptions, constraints, and estimated costs and timeline. The document aims to provide a concise, testable basis for evaluating feasibility and obtaining approval to proceed.

Creation and use follow an iterative process. Often initiated by a project sponsor or product owner, drafts circulate for input from stakeholders, and the document is revised to reflect feedback. It commonly links to related materials such as a business case or a project brief and is updated as plans evolve.

Contexts and benefits: used in IT, product development, engineering, and public projects to secure governance approval, align objectives, and clarify expectations. While it clarifies intent, a konseptidokumentti remains high level and may require supplements such as a feasibility study, business case, or detailed requirements specification as the project progresses.

Limitations include potential for vagueness and risk of becoming outdated if not revised. The usefulness depends on the quality of stakeholder involvement and the clarity of criteria against which success will be judged.