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Technical brief checklist for agencies
The minimum information needed to assess a website, app, backend or integration without requiring a perfect requirements document.
6 min · Updated 2026-07-14
A useful brief does not try to solve the project before hiring. It explains what should be delivered, why it matters, who decides and what can block the date.
01
Five inputs that unlock an initial assessment
- Business or delivery objective.
- Current state: design, code, supplier or initial idea.
- Relevant date and what happens if it moves.
- The technical piece blocking delivery.
- The person responsible for decisions and acceptance.
02
Dependencies and access
Credentials are not needed in the first message. List the systems involved instead: CMS, CRM, API, payment provider, app, analytics, hosting or existing repository.
- Available designs or prototypes.
- Existing repository and documentation.
- Third-party services and their owners.
- Test environments and safe validation data.
03
What you do not need to prepare
- A fixed technology list.
- A perfect backlog.
- A pre-decided estimate.
- Passwords, secrets or sensitive data in email or the form.
04
Short template to copy
We need [outcome] by [date]. We currently have [current state]. The main blocker is [blocker]. [Role or person] will validate. The systems involved are [dependencies]. We are looking for [fixed project, monthly capacity or a recommendation].
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