Why are functional requirements critical in the design process?

Functional requirements are essential in the design process because they clearly outline the primary goals and functions that the design must achieve. By defining what the design is supposed to do, these requirements guide the entire development process, ensuring that the resulting product meets the intended purposes and fulfills user needs. This focus on functionality helps designers prioritize features, make informed decisions, and avoid unnecessary modifications later in the project. Without well-defined functional requirements, a design might stray off course, leading to a product that does not meet its intended use or user expectations. Thus, establishing functional requirements at the outset serves as a foundation for the successful completion of the project.