What best describes a validated requirement?

A validated requirement is one that not only aligns with the overall objectives of the project but also supports the delivery of expected benefits within the specified solution scope. This means it has undergone a process of examination and verification to ensure it accurately reflects stakeholder needs and can contribute to the project's intended outcomes.

In the context of requirement analysis, validation typically involves checking that the requirements are feasible, relevant, and beneficial in the context of the project's goals. It helps to ascertain that the requirements will solve the intended problems or add the desired value. This process is crucial because clearly defined and validated requirements guide the project team in developing solutions that meet stakeholder expectations and project objectives.

In contrast, the other options reflect various stages or characteristics of requirements that do not capture the essence of validation. For example, a requirement that is classified as needed for the project (the first option) may still need further validation to ensure it is practical and necessary. Similarly, a requirement that has not yet been reviewed (the second option) or has been defined but not approved (the fourth option) would not meet the criteria of being validated, as validation inherently requires some level of assessment and agreement among stakeholders.