According to the PMBOKGuide, the Collect Requirements process is one of the six processes found within the Project Scope Management Knowledge Area.
* Definition: It is the process of determining, documenting, and managing stakeholder needs and requirements to meet project objectives.
* The Foundation of Scope: Requirements are the foundation of the WBS. Cost, schedule, quality planning, and sometimes procurement are all based on these requirements.
* Key Components:
* Inputs: Project charter, project management plan, project documents (such as stakeholder register), and business documents.
* Tools and Techniques: Data gathering (brainstorming, interviews, focus groups), data analysis, decision-making, data representation (mind mapping), and interpersonal skills.
* Outputs: Requirements Documentation and the Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM).
* Knowledge Area Alignment: Because this process focuses on defining what is (and is not) included in the project work to satisfy the stakeholders, it is categorized under Scope Management.
Analysis of Other Options:
* A. Quality Management: This area focuses on the standards and processes required to ensure the project meets the quality requirements. While quality requirements are collected during scope management, the knowledge area itself focuses on managing and controlling quality.
* C. Cost Management: This area involves processes for planning, estimating, budgeting, financing, and controlling costs so that the project can be completed within the approved budget.
* D. Integration Management: This area includes the processes and activities to identify, define, combine, unify, and coordinate the various processes and project management activities within the Project Management Process Groups. While it " integrates " the requirements, it is not where they are defined.