Client

Client

A client is a person or organization that commissions a product, system, or service.

The client defines business goals, provides funding, and approves important decisions. Therefore, this role often has strong influence on project scope and priorities.

However, the commissioning party does not always use or receive the final product. For example, an organization may order software for its employees or customers. Consequently, requirements documents should distinguish between the commissioning party, the customer, and the users.

Requirements engineers analyse the underlying goals before defining a solution. Moreover, they clarify decision rights, responsibilities, constraints, and acceptance conditions. This approach reduces ambiguity and supports measurable requirements.

In product development, the commissioning party may also select features or product variants. Therefore, teams should document relevant options, dependencies, costs, and risks.

A clear definition of this role supports effective communication, reliable decisions, and successful acceptance.