Need vs. Requirement

Attribute	Need	Requirement
Definition	Something necessary for survival or well-being	Something that is necessary or mandatory
Subjectivity	Can be subjective and vary from person to person	Usually objective and defined by specific criteria
Flexibility	Can be flexible and adaptable	Usually rigid and non-negotiable
Priority	May not always be the top priority	Usually has high priority and must be fulfilled
Origin	Can arise from personal desires or external factors	Usually derived from external sources like regulations or specifications

Definition

Needs and requirements are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings in various contexts. A need is something that is necessary for an individual to survive or thrive. It is a basic requirement for human life, such as food, water, shelter, and clothing. On the other hand, a requirement is a specific condition or capability that must be met or possessed by a product, service, or system to satisfy a contract, standard, specification, or other formally imposed documents.

Characteristics

Needs are universal and essential for human existence. They are fundamental to our well-being and are often considered non-negotiable. Requirements, on the other hand, are more specific and can vary depending on the context. They are often defined by external factors such as regulations, standards, or customer expectations. Needs are intrinsic to individuals, while requirements are often imposed by external entities.

Flexibility

Needs are relatively inflexible and cannot be easily changed. For example, a person cannot survive without food or water. Requirements, on the other hand, can be more flexible and can be adjusted based on changing circumstances or priorities. For instance, the requirements for a software project may change as new features are added or priorities shift.

Subjectivity

Needs are often subjective and can vary from person to person. What one individual considers a need, another may not. For example, some people may consider a smartphone a necessity, while others may see it as a luxury. Requirements, on the other hand, are typically more objective and are based on specific criteria or standards that must be met.

Priority

Needs are usually given higher priority than requirements. This is because needs are essential for survival and well-being, while requirements are often related to specific goals or objectives. For example, in a disaster situation, the need for food, water, and shelter would take precedence over meeting any specific requirements for assistance.

Relationship

Needs and requirements are closely related, as meeting requirements often involves fulfilling needs. For example, a customer's need for a reliable car may translate into requirements for specific features such as air conditioning, safety features, and fuel efficiency. By meeting these requirements, the car manufacturer is able to satisfy the customer's need for a reliable vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, needs and requirements are two distinct concepts that play important roles in various aspects of life. While needs are essential for human survival and well-being, requirements are specific conditions or capabilities that must be met to achieve certain goals or objectives. Understanding the differences between needs and requirements can help individuals and organizations better prioritize and meet their obligations.