When analyzing functional requirements, why does uniqueness matter?

Uniqueness matters when analyzing functional requirements primarily because if a requirement is stated in multiple places, there is a risk of creating inconsistency. When a requirement repeats, updates made to one instance may not be reflected in others, leading to discrepancies in the understanding and implementation of that requirement. This can cause confusion among stakeholders and developers, as they may be unsure which instance of the requirement is the authoritative one. Ensuring that each requirement is unique helps maintain clarity, avoids contradictions, and simplifies the process of managing changes.

The other options do not align as closely with the core reason for prioritizing uniqueness in functional requirements. While reducing document length and ensuring a conflict-free environment are both considerations in requirement management, they do not address the key issue of inconsistency as directly as the correct answer does. Uniqueness is equally important for both functional and non-functional requirements, countering the notion that it matters solely for non-functional ones.