System Development Methodology Selection Criteria
Six Criteria for Selecting a System Development Methodology
Clarity of User Requirements
When user requirements for what the system should do are unclear, it is difficult to understand them by talking about them and explaining them with written reports. Users normally need to interact with technology to truly understand what the new system can do and how to best apply it to their needs. Prototyping and throwaway prototyping-based RAD methodologies are usually more appropriate when user requirements
Read MoreSoftware Quality Fundamentals: SDLC, Testing Types, QA/QC Insights
Verification vs. Validation in Software Quality
Understanding the distinction between verification and validation is crucial for effective software quality assurance. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
- Verification: Checks whether the product is built right.
- Validation: Checks whether the right product is built.
- Verification: Ensures the software meets specifications.
- Validation: Ensures the software meets user needs.
- Verification: A static process (no code execution).
- Validation: A dynamic process
Software Design Principles & Cost Estimation Methods
Coupling and Cohesion in Software Engineering
Coupling and Cohesion are fundamental concepts in software engineering that describe the relationships between modules in a system.
Coupling
Coupling refers to the degree of interdependence between modules. The lower the coupling, the better the design, as tightly coupled modules are more difficult to maintain and modify.
Types of Coupling
- Tightly Coupled: Modules rely heavily on each other, making changes difficult.
- Loosely Coupled: Modules are independent
Software Project Management Essentials: Agile & Planning
What is Software Project Management (SPM)?
Software Project Management (SPM) is the discipline of planning, organizing, and managing software projects, focusing on scope, time, cost, and quality.
Software Project Planning Steps
- Define scope and objectives
- Identify tasks (Work Breakdown Structure – WBS)
- Estimate resources and time
- Schedule tasks
- Assign responsibilities
- Plan risk management
- Monitor and control progress
- Finalize and review
Plan-Based Project Management: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Predictable timelines
Spiral Model in Software Development: Phases, Benefits, and Drawbacks
The Spiral Model in Software Development
The Spiral Model, proposed by Barry Boehm in 1986, is a software development process model that combines elements of both the Waterfall Model and Prototyping. It is primarily used for large, complex, and high-risk projects where requirements are not well understood from the beginning.
Phases of the Spiral Model
Each loop (iteration) of the spiral represents a phase in the software process and includes four major activities:
-
Planning:
- Identify objectives, constraints,
Software Engineering Core Concepts & Practices
Software Engineering Fundamentals
Software engineering is a disciplined process in which user needs are analyzed, and software is designed, developed, and maintained based on those needs.
Attributes of Quality Software
- Maintainability: Software must evolve to meet the changing needs of customers.
- Dependability: Software must be trustworthy. Dependability encompasses characteristics such as reliability, security, and safety.
- Efficiency: Software should not make wasteful use of system resources, such as