How to make IT specification?

source: http://www.sxc.hu/profile/julosstock

Sounds simple, but people do not like to make specifications of their IT requirements nor they do know how to make it. Most of them.
Just gather all related documents and email communication and start to make structured document with head and body.
Describe first what is the current situation of process that requires IT solution. In few sentences.
Then describe what is the main obstacle and what is the main driver for IT requirement. Next is to briefly describe goal of solution.
This is the header of specification. In body use current reports whit new parts, describe more in details current wishes. Describe functionalities not content because IT does not maintain YOUR content and does not have to know much about it. Describe in steps new relations or features.
if you’re advanced Business Intelligence user define table of combinations of dimensions and measures with their descriptions.

Draw a process and then draw participants, deliveries and responsibilities. If its convenient include workflow scheme.
Include current excel tables (with VBA) or access solutions that participate or are related to current requirement. Explain why they should be changed with proper IT solution.
That’s it for the start. IT can do something with such specification and you’ll have documentation that explains your requirement.
All other following workshops and documents are just an add-on to initial specification.

This are the hints how to make specification for IT.