specdriven

specdriven is a term that refers to a software development approach where software is built based on specifications. These specifications can take various forms, such as user stories, business requirements, or formal design documents. The core idea is to have a clear and agreed-upon definition of what the software should do before development begins. This helps ensure that the final product meets the intended goals and user needs.

In a specdriven process, the specifications serve as the primary source of truth for developers. They guide the design, implementation, and testing of the software. This approach often involves close collaboration between business stakeholders, product owners, and the development team to ensure that the specifications accurately reflect the desired functionality. Testing is a crucial component, with test cases often derived directly from the specifications to verify that the software behaves as expected.

The benefits of specdriven development include improved clarity, reduced ambiguity, and better alignment between business objectives and the delivered software. It can lead to fewer misunderstandings, more predictable development cycles, and higher quality software. However, it requires careful attention to the creation and maintenance of specifications, as poorly defined or outdated specifications can hinder progress. The process emphasizes thorough planning and a clear understanding of requirements before significant development effort is invested.