Identify interface requirements.

Interfaces between functions (or between objects or other logical entities) are identified. Interfaces can drive the development of alternative solutions described in the Technical Solution process area.

Refer to the Product Integration process area for more information about ensuring interface compatibility.

Interface requirements between products or product components identified in the product architecture are defined. They are controlled as part of product and product component integration and are an integral part of the architecture definition.

Example Work Products

1.    Interface requirements

Subpractices

1.    Identify interfaces both external to the product and internal to the product (e.g., between functional partitions or objects).

As the design progresses, the product architecture will be altered by technical solution processes, creating new interfaces between product components and components external to the product.

Interfaces with product related lifecycle processes should also be identified.

2.    Develop the requirements for the identified interfaces.

Refer to the Technical Solution process area for more information about designing interfaces using criteria.

Requirements for interfaces are defined in terms such as origination, destination, stimulus, data characteristics for software, and electrical and mechanical characteristics for hardware.