Requirement Quality and Verification
Requirement Quality and Verification: Mastering the AC3U2FTP Checklist from BABOK V3
In the world of business analysis, quality requirements are non-negotiable. They serve as the foundation for building solutions that truly meet stakeholder needs. According to the BABOK V3 (Business Analysis Body of Knowledge), a requirement must satisfy nine essential characteristics to be considered verified.
To make these easier to remember, we use the acronym AC3U2FTP:
🔹 Atomic – Self-contained and understandable on its own.
🔹 Complete – Contains all necessary details to move forward.
🔹 Consistent – Does not conflict with other requirements.
🔹 Concise – Clear, brief, and to the point.
🔹 Understandable – Easily interpreted by its intended audience.
🔹 Unambiguous – Only one clear interpretation.
🔹 Feasible – Achievable within time, cost, and technology constraints.
🔹 Testable – Can be proven or verified.
🔹 Prioritized – Ranked according to business value and urgency.
Each requirement must meet all nine of these characteristics. Missing even one can compromise clarity, alignment, or delivery—resulting in rework, scope creep, or project failure.
That’s why using a requirements quality checklist isn’t just good practice—it’s a professional standard. A checklist helps business analysts apply rigor, reduce risk, and produce results that stand up to scrutiny.
Let’s raise the bar together. Use AC3U2FTP as your guide, and bring clarity, confidence, and consistency to every project.
Quality verification of requirements isn’t just a step—it’s a cornerstone of successful business analysis. According to the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK V3), a requirement must have exactly all nine key characteristics to be verified, easily remembered as AC3U2FTP:
Why use a checklist? Because great business analysts care deeply about quality, clarity, and effectiveness. A structured checklist ensures nothing slips through the cracks, leading to better solutions and satisfied stakeholders.
Quality isn’t optional—it’s foundational. Let’s elevate our analysis and solutions by verifying each requirement with intention.
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