Which key document is essential for identifying capabilities before formal requirements?

The Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) is crucial for identifying capabilities before formal requirements are established. It serves as a foundational document that outlines the capability needs and the mission context identified by the user community. The ICD helps to articulate the high-level objectives and gaps in capability, enabling decision-makers to understand what is necessary to meet operational needs.

By framing the essential capabilities without delving into the specifics of formal requirements, the ICD ensures that the acquisition process begins with a clear understanding of what the users need in order to achieve their mission effectively. This early identification plays a significant role in shaping the trajectory of a capability's development, guiding further analysis and potentially influencing subsequent documents like the Capability Development Document (CDD), which focuses on more detailed requirements.

Thus, the ICD is instrumental in the early stages of the systems acquisition process, ensuring that efforts remain aligned with strategic objectives and effectively addressing identified capability gaps.