Community Platform Requirements Document

A Community Platform Requirements Document is a formal, strategic document that specifies the functional and non-functional needs for a new or replacement community platform. It is framed as a business case, designed to secure buy-in and budget from organisational leadership by clearly linking technological capabilities to member outcomes and business objectives. This document serves as the foundational blueprint for the entire platform selection, implementation, and launch programme, ensuring that all decisions are deliberate, aligned, and focused on delivering measurable value.

Why it matters — Community Platform Requirements Document

Creating a comprehensive requirements document is a critical, yet often overlooked, step in the community technology lifecycle. Its importance cannot be overstated, as it provides the strategic clarity and operational discipline needed to navigate a complex and expensive decision. A well-crafted document acts as a central point of reference for all stakeholders, from the community team to the C-suite.