Which technique can be employed to elicit requirements directly from users?

Shadowing is a powerful technique for directly eliciting requirements from users because it involves observing users as they carry out their tasks in real-time. This method provides a firsthand understanding of the user’s workflow, behaviors, challenges, and interactions with systems or processes. By being present and actively witnessing how users engage with their work, business analysts can gather insights that might not be articulated through traditional interviews or surveys. This observational approach allows the analyst to identify needs and pain points that may be overlooked or unexpressed during more formal elicitation techniques.

Using shadowing, analysts are able to ask questions on the spot, gaining deeper insights into the “why” behind user actions and decisions, and can clarify any ambiguities in real-time. This leads to a richer understanding of the context surrounding requirements, ensuring that they align closely with user needs and expectations. As a result, utilizing shadowing as a technique helps to foster a more user-centered approach in requirement gathering, which is essential for developing effective solutions.