A useful requirements definitionis expressed as a set of highly interrelated UML models that together represent a logical simulation of the system to be implemented.
This logical simulation is in actuality a highly detailed and tangible model of a portion of the company's activity system or value chain. In this manner, the best possible value chain is defined for realizing the company's strategic position and opportunities for operational efficiency are identified - the two components of competitive advantage.
Business systems are neither simple nor straight-forward. It is clear that the "requirements" for a system are far more diverse and three dimensional than can be adequately expressed in vague, high-level statements set forth in a static document. The requirements analysis effort is by far the most valuable activity to the systems initiative and to the business in general.
The business models become the basis for the development of policies and procedures, the selection/design of software, the selection of hardware, system testing, and the development of training programs and materials. They provide a highly detailed, clear and unambiguous requirements definition that is not subject to interpretation. Their value extends well past the development and implementation of the physical system. They become an essential tool for future system development, greatly reducing the risk and cost of maintenance and enhancements over the life of the system.
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