what is product specification

A product specification, also known as a product spec, is a document that outlines the requirements and characteristics of a product. It serves as a blueprint for designing, developing, and testing the product, and contains key information such as target users, business needs, goals, and other essential details. A product spec is used as an outline of the requirements for the product team, and is usually written by the product manager. It provides all the information they need to build the product with specific features and functionalities, and offers a technical description, performance specification, and the technical standards to meet along with other details. An effective product spec is concise, brief, and not overly technical, and should answer key questions such as what are we building, and why? What should this new product achieve? How do we measure success? . A product spec is a critical early step for product development as it requires critical thinking in the initial stages of fleshing out a new idea. It effectively communicates what’s being built and for whom, and what the outcome should be. Additionally, it provides essential context for those who will be developing the product, and serves as a guideline for product teams to follow throughout the development process. A really good product spec provides clarity, which streamlines development, keeps teams on track, and helps avoid costly miscommunication.