Table of Contents
1. EXERCISE NO. 1 – Project Overview
1.1 Aim
1.2 Hardware Interfaces
1.3 Software Interfaces
1.4 Problem Statement
1.5 Conclusion
2. EXERCISE NO. 2 – Software Requirements Specification
2.1 Hardware Requirements
2.2 Software Requirements
2.3 Theory and Purpose of the SRS
2.4 Characteristics of a Good SRS
2.5 SRS Basic Outline
2.5.1 Introduction
2.5.2 Overall Description
2.5.3 External Interface Requirements
2.5.4 System Features
2.5.5 Other Nonfunctional Requirements
2.5.6 Other Requirements
2.5.7 Appendix: Data Dictionary
2.6 Conclusion
3. EXERCISE NO. 3 – Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD)
3.1 Hardware and Software Interfaces for ERD
3.2 Entities and Attributes
3.3 Relationships
3.4 Conclusion
4. References and Acknowledgments
1. EXERCISE NO. 1 – Project Overview
1.1 Aim:
The aim of the Real-Time Chat Application is to deliver instantaneous, secure,
and seamless communication across various devices. The system will support
real-time exchange of text, voice, video, and multimedia messages, thus
enhancing both personal and professional communication experiences.
1.2 Hardware Interfaces:
The system will interact with the following hardware components:
• Audio Devices: Speakers, headphones, and microphones for voice
messages and calls.
• Display/Input Devices: Touchscreen displays, keyboards, and mice for
user interaction.
• Cameras: Integrated or external cameras (optional) for video calls and
identity verification.
• Connectivity Modules: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules for wireless, real-
time data exchange.
• USB Ports: For connecting peripherals and charging devices.
• Physical Controls: Buttons for power, volume, and basic operations.
• LED Indicators: Visual indicators for notifications and connection status.
1.3 Software Interfaces:
Key software interfaces include:
• Real-Time Communication Protocols: Utilization of WebSockets and
RESTful APIs for low-latency messaging.
• User Interface Software: Graphical interfaces for login, chat dashboards,
conversation windows, and settings.
• Chat History Management: Systems for archiving conversations and
supporting quick search functionality.
• File Transfer Module: Integration for sharing images, videos, documents,
and other multimedia content.
• Notification Services: Real-time push notifications and in-app alerts.
• Deployment Tools: Software packages to ensure seamless cross-platform
distribution (desktop, mobile, web).
1.4 Problem Statement:
In today’s fast-paced digital era, users demand communication platforms that
are both instantaneous and secure. Traditional messaging systems often face
issues such as transmission delays, scalability bottlenecks, and limited
multimedia support. The Real-Time Chat Application is designed to overcome
these shortcomings by leveraging advanced protocols and robust server-client
architectures. It will enable:
• Instant Messaging: Delivering messages within milliseconds.
• Multimedia Support: Handling voice, video, and file sharing.
• Scalability: Supporting thousands of concurrent users without
performance degradation.
• Security: Ensuring data encryption and secure user authentication.
1.5 Conclusion:
The problem statement has been clearly defined by identifying the challenges
of conventional messaging systems and outlining the need for an advanced,
feature-rich Real-Time Chat Application. This application is intended to provide
a reliable, efficient, and secure communication platform, meeting modern user
demands.
2. EXERCISE NO. 2 – Software Requirements Specification (SRS)
AIM: - Aim: Understanding an SRS(Real-Time Chat Application).
2.1 Hardware Requirements:
• Devices: PCs, tablets, or smartphones with a processor speed of 300
MHz or higher (233 MHz minimum).
• Memory: At least 2 GB of RAM recommended (minimum 1 GB
supported).
• Storage: Minimum of 500 MB available storage.
• Audio & Visual: Microphones, speakers/headphones, and optional front-
facing cameras.
• Input Devices: Standard keyboard and mouse or touch-based inputs.
2.2 Software Requirements:
• Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+,
Android 9+, and iOS 13+.
• Development Platforms: Technologies such as [Link], Python, or Java;
frameworks for real-time communications (WebSockets, RESTful APIs).
• Database Systems: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Firebase for
persistent storage of chat data and user profiles.
• Security: Encryption libraries, secure authentication modules (including
multi-factor authentication), and compliance with data protection
standards.
2.3 Theory and Purpose of the SRS:
An SRS is a formal document that captures all requirements and constraints of
a software system before design and development commence. It serves as a
mutual agreement between stakeholders and the development team, ensuring
clarity on what the system must achieve and the constraints it must operate
within. For the Real-Time Chat Application, the SRS outlines both functional
and nonfunctional requirements to avoid ambiguity and reduce development
risks.
2.4 Characteristics of a Good SRS:
A high-quality SRS should be:
• Correct: Reflecting accurate and validated requirements.
• Unambiguous: Each requirement should have only one interpretation.
• Complete: All necessary requirements for design and implementation
are included.
• Consistent: No conflicting or duplicated requirements exist.
• Ranked: Requirements are prioritized by importance.
• Verifiable: Each requirement can be tested and validated.
• Modifiable: Organized to easily accommodate changes.
• Traceable: Requirements are linked to higher-level business or user
needs.
2.5 SRS Basic Outline for the Real-Time Chat Application:
2.5.1 Introduction:
• Purpose: Define the objectives of the Real-Time Chat Application.
• Document Conventions: Outline formatting, requirement IDs, and use of
diagrams.
• Intended Audience: List of stakeholders (developers, testers,
administrators, end users).
• Additional Information: Project background, market analysis, and
context.
• Contact Information / SRS Team Members: Names and contact details of
the SRS authors.
• References: Industry standards and documentation guidelines (e.g., IEEE
Std 830-1998).
2.5.2 Overall Description:
• Product Perspective: Positioning of the chat application within the
existing technology ecosystem.
• Product Functions: Key functionalities including real-time messaging,
group chat management, file sharing, notifications, and user presence.
• User Classes and Characteristics: Identification of end users,
administrators, and other roles.
• Operating Environment: Hardware, software, and network conditions
under which the system will run.
• User Environment: Typical usage scenarios including desktop, mobile,
and remote connectivity.
• Design/Implementation Constraints: Hardware limitations, third-party
dependencies, regulatory requirements, and performance targets.
• Assumptions and Dependencies: Assumptions (e.g., reliable internet
connectivity) and dependencies (e.g., external APIs, cloud services).
2.5.3 External Interface Requirements:
• User Interfaces:
o Login/Registration: Intuitive screens for user authentication.
o Chat Dashboard: Central interface for active chats and
notifications.
o Conversation Window: Real-time messaging interface.
o Settings: User and system configuration options.
• Hardware Interfaces: Interaction with audio devices, cameras, displays,
and storage.
• Software Interfaces: Integration with operating systems, messaging APIs,
and databases.
• Communication Protocols: Use of HTTP/HTTPS, WebSockets, and
RESTful APIs for secure data exchange.
2.5.4 System Features:
• User Authentication and Profile Management: Secure user sign-up,
login, and profile customization.
• Real-Time Messaging: Instant delivery of text, voice, video, and file
messages, including read receipts and delivery confirmations.
• Group Chat Management: Creation and management of group chat
sessions with member addition/removal and group settings.
• Notification System: Configurable push notifications and in-app alerts for
incoming messages and system updates.
2.5.5 Other Nonfunctional Requirements:
• Performance Requirements:
o Response Time: UI responsiveness within 0.5 seconds.
o Throughput: Message delivery latency under 1 second.
o Scalability: Ability to handle high volumes of concurrent users.
• Safety Requirements: Data backup procedures and system recovery
mechanisms.
• Security Requirements: Encryption, secure authentication, and role-
based access control.
• Software Quality Attributes:
o Reliability: Minimum 99% uptime.
o Usability: Intuitive user experience.
o Maintainability: Modular design for easy updates.
o Compatibility: Cross-platform support.
2.5.6 Other Requirements:
• Hardware: Reiterate minimum hardware specifications.
• Software: Detailed list of supported operating systems and software
dependencies.
• Regulatory and Compliance: Ensure adherence to standards such as
GDPR and IEEE documentation guidelines.
2.5.7 Appendix: Data Dictionary:
Provide clear definitions for key terms:
• User: A registered individual on the chat platform.
• Message: A unit of communication (text, multimedia, or file).
• Chat Session: An instance of conversation between users.
• Notification: An alert about new messages or system events.
2.6 Conclusion:
The SRS for the Real-Time Chat Application has been meticulously developed
following the outlined structure. It serves as a comprehensive blueprint for
design, development, testing, and maintenance, ensuring that all stakeholders
share a unified understanding of the project’s requirements and constraints.
Software Requirements Specification
For
Real-Time Chat Application
Real-Time Chat Application
Version 1.0
Date: March 2025
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose:
This document specifies the software requirements for the Real-Time Chat
Application. Its purpose is to define the functional and non-functional
requirements that will guide the design, development, testing, and
maintenance of the application. The application aims to deliver
instantaneous, secure, and user-friendly messaging for both personal and
professional use.
1.2 Scope:
The Real-Time Chat Application is designed to provide real-time
communication across multiple platforms (desktop, mobile, and web). Key
features include instant messaging, group chats, multimedia sharing
(images, videos, files), presence indicators, and notifications. The
application is built to scale, ensuring high performance even under heavy
user loads.
1.3 Definitions, Acronyms, and Abbreviations:
• RTCA: Real-Time Chat Application
• SRS: Software Requirements Specification
• UI: User Interface
• API: Application Programming Interface
• DBMS: Database Management System
• MFA: Multi-Factor Authentication
1.4 References:
• IEEE Std 830-1998, IEEE Recommended Practice for Software
Requirements Specifications
• Sommerville, Ian. "Software Engineering," 10th Edition, Pearson, 2016
• Pressman, R.S. "Software Engineering: A Practitioner's Approach," 8th
Edition, McGraw-Hill Education, 2014
1.5 Overview:
This document provides a comprehensive description of the Real-Time
ChatApplication's system requirements, covering overall system design,
specific functional requirements, non-functional requirements, and other
pertinent details. It serves as a blueprint for the development team and
stakeholders, ensuring a common understanding of the application's goals
and constraints.
2. Overall Description
2.1 Product Perspective:
The Real-Time Chat Application is a standalone communication platform
designed to integrate with modern systems and services. It complements
existing communication tools by offering low-latency, secure messaging and
multimedia support across various devices and operating systems.
2.2 Product Functions:
The main functions of the application include:
• Real-Time Messaging: Instant exchange of text, voice, video, and file
messages.
• Group Chat: Support for multiple participants in a single conversation.
• User Authentication and Profile Management: Secure sign-up, login,
and profile customization.
• Notifications: Real-time alerts for incoming messages and chat updates.
• Multimedia Sharing: Ability to share images, videos, and documents
within chats.
• Chat History Management: Storage and retrieval of past conversations
with search functionality.
2.3 User Classes and Characteristics:
• End Users: Individuals using the chat service for personal or business
communication.
• Administrators: Personnel managing user accounts, system
configurations, and monitoring performance.
• Support Staff: Users handling technical support and maintenance issues.
2.4 Operating Environment:
• Hardware: PCs, tablets, smartphones with minimum 2 GB RAM and 500
MB storage.
• Software: Compatible with Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Android 9+,
and iOS 13+.
• Network: Requires stable internet connectivity (Wi-Fi, cellular data, or
Ethernet).
2.5 User Environment:
The application is intended for use in diverse environments—from
corporate offices to remote areas with varying network conditions. Its
user interface will be optimized for both desktop and mobile screens.
2.6 Design and Implementation Constraints:
• Performance: Message delivery latency should be under 1 second.
• Scalability: The system must support high concurrency with thousands
of simultaneous users.
• Security: End-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication must be
implemented.
• Platform Compatibility: Must run on various operating systems and
device types.
• Third-Party Dependencies: Integration with external APIs for push
notifications, file storage, and user authentication.
2.7 Assumptions and Dependencies:
• Users have continuous internet connectivity.
• The underlying hardware meets minimum specifications.
• Third-party APIs and services are available and stable.
• Regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR) will be met through proper
security and data handling practices.
3. Specific Requirements
3.1 Functional Requirements
3.1.1 User Authentication and Profile Management:
• FR-1: The system shall allow users to register with an email address and
password.
• FR-2: The system shall support multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• FR-3: Users shall be able to update their profile information, including a
profile picture and status.
3.1.2 Real-Time Messaging:
• FR-4: The system shall support one-to-one messaging with delivery and
read receipts.
• FR-5: The system shall support group chat functionality with a minimum
of 3 participants.
• FR-6: Users shall be able to send text, voice, video, and file messages.
3.1.3 Multimedia and File Sharing:
• FR-7: Users shall be able to upload and share multimedia content
(images, videos, documents) in real time.
• FR-8: The system shall ensure that files are transmitted securely and
within a defined size limit.
3.1.4 Notifications and Alerts:
• FR-9: The system shall provide real-time push notifications for new
messages.
• FR-10: Users shall have customizable notification settings.
3.1.5 Chat History and Search:
• FR-11: The system shall archive chat histories for retrieval and search.
• FR-12: Users shall be able to search for keywords within chat
conversations.
3.2 External Interface Requirements:
3.2.1 User Interface:
• UI-1: A login and registration screen with a user-friendly design.
• UI-2: A main dashboard displaying active chats, notifications, and user
status.
• UI-3: A conversation window optimized for real-time updates and
multimedia display.
• UI-4: Settings pages for profile management, privacy options, and
notification preferences.
3.2.2 Hardware Interface:
• HI-1: The application shall interface with audio devices (speakers,
headphones, microphones) for voice communication.
• HI-2: The application shall utilize device cameras (if available) for video
calls.
• HI-3: The system shall support input from various devices such as
keyboards, touchscreens, and mice.
3.2.3 Software Interface:
• SI-1: The system shall integrate with database systems (e.g., MySQL,
PostgreSQL, MongoDB) for data persistence.
• SI-2: The system shall utilize secure APIs for data exchange, including
RESTful APIs and WebSockets.
• SI-3: Integration with third-party services for push notifications and file
storage is required.
3.3 Communication Protocols:
• CP-1: The system shall use HTTP/HTTPS for secure communication.
• CP-2: The system shall maintain real-time communication using
WebSocket protocols.
• CP-3: RESTful APIs shall be used for non-real-time data exchange and
service integration.
4. Other Nonfunctional Requirements:
4.1 Performance Requirements:
• PR-1: The user interface shall respond within 0.5 seconds for user
interactions.
• PR-2: Message delivery latency shall be less than 1 second under normal
network conditions.
• PR-3: The system shall support high concurrency and scale horizontally
to accommodate growing user numbers.
4.2 Safety Requirements:
• SR-1: The system shall include regular data backup and recovery
procedures.
• SR-2: Error handling must ensure minimal disruption to users in case of
system failure.
4.3 Security Requirements:
• SEC-1: All data transmitted and stored must be encrypted using industry-
standard protocols.
• SEC-2: The system shall implement multi-factor authentication and role-
based access control.
• SEC-3: User data privacy must comply with relevant regulations (e.g.,
GDPR).
4.4 Usability Requirements:
• UR-1: The user interface must be intuitive and accessible, providing a
seamless experience for both technical and non-technical users.
• UR-2: The application shall support responsive design for different
screen sizes and resolutions.
4.5 Maintainability Requirements:
• MR-1: The system architecture should be modular to facilitate easy
updates and maintenance.
• MR-2: Detailed documentation and code comments should be
maintained to assist future development efforts.
5. Other Requirements
5.1 Hardware Requirements:
• Devices must have a minimum of 2 GB RAM and 500 MB storage.
• A processor of 300 MHz or higher is required (233 MHz minimum).
• Audio input/output devices and optional camera support must be
available.
5.2 Software Requirements:
• The application must support Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Android 9+,
and iOS 13+.
• Development dependencies include [Link]/Python/Java, WebSocket
libraries, and encryption frameworks.
• The system must integrate with a reliable DBMS (e.g., MySQL,
PostgreSQL, MongoDB).
5.3 Regulatory and Compliance Requirements:
• The system must comply with data protection laws such as GDPR.
• All security practices must adhere to industry standards and best
practices (e.g., IEEE Std 830-1998 for SRS documentation).
3. EXERCISE NO. 3 – Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD)
AIM: - To draw a sample ENTITY RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM for a real project or
system.
3.1 Hardware and Software Interfaces for ERD:
Hardware Interfaces:
• Audio input/output devices
• Touchscreen or keyboard/mouse input devices
• Optional cameras for video verification
• Connectivity modules (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi)
• USB ports and LED indicators
Software Interfaces:
• Real-time messaging protocols (WebSockets)
• User interface components for chat management
• Database systems for storing messages and user data
• Notification services and integration with external APIs
3.2 Entities and Attributes:
• User:
o Attributes: User_ID, Name, Email, Password, Profile_Picture,
Status, Last_Seen
o Description: Represents an individual registered on the chat
platform.
• Message:
o Attributes: Message_ID, Content, Timestamp, Sender_ID, Chat_ID,
Message_Type (text, image, video, file)
o Description: Represents a message exchanged between users.
• Chat:
o Attributes: Chat_ID, Chat_Type (private or group), Creation_Date
o Description: Represents a conversation session.
• Group:
o Attributes: Group_ID, Group_Name, Description, Creation_Date
o Description: A specialized chat for group conversations with added
management features.
• Attachment:
o Attributes: Attachment_ID, File_Name, File_Type, File_Size,
Associated_Message_ID
o Description: Files or media attached to messages.
• Notification:
o Attributes: Notification_ID, Content, Timestamp, Recipient_ID,
Read_Status
o Description: Alerts for new messages or system events.
3.3 Relationships:
• A User can participate in multiple Chats and send multiple Messages.
• Each Message is sent by one User and belongs to one Chat.
• A Chat involves two or more Users (with private chats typically involving
two users, and group chats involving many).
• A Message may have one or more Attachments.
• A User may receive multiple Notifications.
ENTITY RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM:
3.4 Conclusion:
The ERD for the Real-Time Chat Application defines the core entities, their
attributes, and interrelationships, thereby establishing a robust data model
that supports messaging, group communications, and notifications.
5. References and Acknowledgments:
References:
• IEEE Std 830-1998, IEEE Recommended Practice for Software
Requirements Specifications.
• Sommerville, Ian. "Software Engineering," 10th Edition, Pearson, 2016.
• Pressman, R.S. "Software Engineering: A Practitioner's Approach," 8th
Edition, McGraw-Hill Education, 2014.
• Additional internal documentation and stakeholder interviews.
Acknowledgments:
We express our sincere gratitude to all project stakeholders—including project
managers, developers, testers, and end users—for their contributions and
feedback. Their insights have been crucial in shaping this SRS document and
ensuring that the Real-Time Chat Application meets modern communication
requirements.