You need to elicit requirements from a large set of potential users in a limited time. Which technique would be best?

Using a closed-ended questionnaire is the most effective technique for eliciting requirements from a large set of potential users within a limited timeframe. This method allows for the collection of information from many respondents simultaneously, making it time-efficient and scalable. Since the questions are structured with predefined answers, respondents can complete the questionnaire quickly, and this format simplifies data analysis.

The closed-ended questionnaire provides quantifiable data, which can be readily aggregated and analyzed to identify trends, preferences, and needs among the user population. This is particularly beneficial when the goal is to gather specific information from a diverse group in a short period since the rigid structure minimizes the variation in responses, leading to clearer insights into user requirements.

Other techniques, while useful in different contexts, do not match the effectiveness of a closed-ended questionnaire in this scenario. For instance, closed-ended interviews often allow for deeper insights but can be time-intensive and may not reach as many users quickly. Brainstorming encourages creativity and idea generation but typically involves fewer participants and can be less structured, potentially making it less effective for gathering specific requirements from a large audience. Prototyping is valuable for visualizing concepts and refining solutions through feedback, but it is more iterative and time-consuming than simply gathering initial requirements.