In comparison to feature driven approaches, the NFR framework leverages all the key NFRs including security, accuracy, performance and scalability to drive the solution architecture process. The framework puts NFRs foremost on the software architect's agenda.

One has to iterate over the process steps a few times during the design process and finalize the critical NRFs for the engagement. An architect may refine it through various design alternatives and hence the development process may move up and down, rather than being strictly sequential. It will be essential for the architect to draw from past knowledges and experience while working through the process.

The NFR framework provides a model for identifying and establishing the solution design and rationale. The framework also offers a catalogue of NFRs, the sub-NFRs and the decomposing techniques. By drawing on this framework, the knowledge at each checkpoint can be leveraged to initiate and bring forth expertise to drive the NFRs process steps.