CP317 Software Engineering Chapter 2

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Questions and Answers

Which life-cycle model allows for continuous refinement and adaptation of software after initial development?

Iterative-and-incremental life-cycle model (correct)

Open source model

Waterfall life-cycle model

Code-and-fix life-cycle model

What is a key drawback of the code-and-fix life-cycle model?

It emphasizes thorough documentation

It often leads to inadequate testing and maintenance (correct)

It has rigid phases that do not allow for changes

It incorporates end-user feedback constantly

In the context of software development, why might the requirements of a client change?

To align more closely with technological advancements

To match competitor offerings

Due to the introduction of additional features

All of the above (correct)

Which life-cycle model is characterized by repeating phases and a focus on risk management?

Spiral life-cycle model Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective of the rapid prototyping life-cycle model?

To gather extensive user feedback before full implementation Signup and view all the answers

What happens if all risks in the Spiral Model cannot be mitigated?

The project is immediately terminated. Signup and view all the answers

Which dimension of the Full Spiral Model represents cumulative cost to date?

Radial dimension Signup and view all the answers

What is a key strength of the Spiral Model?

It is easy to determine how much testing is needed. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT a criterion for deciding on a life-cycle model according to the content provided?

The organization's budget Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Mix-and-match' life-cycle model suggest?

Combining different life-cycle models based on project needs. Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates closed-source software from open-source software?

Open-source software allows access to the source code. Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is NOT typically associated with Agile processes?

Emphasis on documentation Signup and view all the answers

In the Synchronize-and-Stabilize model, what occurs after each build is completed?

Components undergo synchronization. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key focus of the Spiral model in software development?

Managing risks Signup and view all the answers

What role does a client representative play in Extreme Programming (XP)?

They are always present throughout the project. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about refactoring in Agile processes?

It always reduces the post-delivery maintenance costs. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the Rapid Prototyping model is true?

It involves creating working prototypes for user evaluation. Signup and view all the answers

How does the approach of pair programming function in Agile methodologies?

One developer writes code while the other reviews it simultaneously. Signup and view all the answers

Which model emphasizes the iterative-and-incremental development process?

Extreme Programming Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of all Agile processes?

Early delivery of functional software Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum accuracy required for the fare machine?

98% Signup and view all the answers

Which episode reflects a fault found due to slow implementation?

Episode 2 Signup and view all the answers

What does the Moving Target Problem describe?

Changes in requirements during development Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about iteration and incrementation is true?

They can help detect and correct defects early. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a software product according to the lessons learned from the Winburg case study?

It is adaptable to changes in the real world. Signup and view all the answers

What does Miller's Law suggest about handling information?

Complex tasks should be restructured into smaller components. Signup and view all the answers

Which workflow predominates at the end of the software's life cycle?

Test workflow Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary risk identified in the iterative and incremental model?

Risk of regression faults due to changes. Signup and view all the answers

What is true about the Code-and-Fix model?

It can function well without structure. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by each episode in the Evolution-Tree model?

A baseline of completed artifacts. Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to handle more than seven chunks of information effectively according to Miller’s Law?

Divide the information into simpler concepts. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the iterative and incremental model facilitates early client feedback?

Prototypes created during the first iteration. Signup and view all the answers

Why is iteration performed during each increment?

To ensure all workflows are revisited and updated. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major disadvantage of the Waterfall Model?

It is difficult to obtain client feedback until the end of the project. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Rapid Prototyping Model primarily differ from the Code-and-Fix Model?

It produces a working version that is typically discarded. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of the Waterfall Model?

Linear and feedback loops. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature among the Code-and-Fix, Rapid Prototyping, and Open-Source models?

All produce an initial working version. Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens to the initial version in the Rapid Prototyping Model?

It is discarded after lessons are learned. Signup and view all the answers

In the Open-Source Life-Cycle Model, what role do users play?

They act as co-developers for corrective maintenance. Signup and view all the answers

Which model is described as the easiest yet the most expensive way to develop software?

Code-and-Fix Model Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of the Waterfall Model?

Maintenance is generally easier. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Software Life Cycle Models

Various life-cycle models include Evolution-tree, Iterative-and-Incremental, Code-and-Fix, Waterfall, Rapid Prototyping, Open Source, Extreme Programming, Synchronize-and-Stabilize, and Spiral.

Software Development Theory vs. Practice

Ideal software development is linear and starts from scratch.
Real-world development often involves mistakes and evolving client requirements.

Winburg Case Study

Mayor of Winburg requested software for bus fare machines utilizing image recognition.
Key requirements: response time under 1 second and 98% accuracy.
Development process involved faulty implementation, requirement changes, and new designs leading to completion.

Evolution-Tree Model

Events are documented in clear episodes, with baselines established at each phase.
Final baseline after development includes updated requirements, analysis, design, and implementation.

Lessons from Winburg Case Study

Software reflects a changing real world, requiring ongoing adjustments.
Human error is an inherent risk in development.

Moving Target Problem

Changes during development can introduce regression faults.
Excessive modifications may necessitate complete redesign and implementation.

Iteration and Incrementation

Iterative process aims for each version to surpass its predecessor.
Incremental approach spreads operations over the software life cycle, rather than confining them to specific phases.

Miller’s Law

Cognitive limit for handling information is roughly seven chunks.
Use stepwise refinement to focus on critical issues first, deferring less urgent aspects.

Classical Phases vs. Workflows

Sequential phases aren’t practical; instead, core workflows (Requirements, Analysis, Design, Implementation, Test) occur throughout the life cycle.
Predominant workflow varies over project duration.

Strengths of Iterative-and-Incremental Model

Regular testing throughout iterations allows for early detection of faults.
Architectural robustness assessed early enables handling of changes.
Early working versions allow client feedback for future adjustments.

Code-and-Fix Model

Software is developed without clear requirements or design.
Although easy to start, it often becomes costly and difficult to maintain.

Waterfall Model

Defined by a linear structure with feedback loops and documentation-driven processes.
Advantages include ease of maintenance; disadvantages involve lengthy documentation and lack of incrementality in product visibility.

Rapid Prototyping Model

Produces a functional working model for feedback, typically discarded after use.
Less dependence on extensive feedback loops.

Open-Source Life-Cycle Model

Involves initial version creation without formal specifications; user collaborative maintenance is crucial.

Open-Source vs. Closed-Source Software

Closed-source software relies on employees for maintenance; users lack source code access.
Open-source is maintained by volunteers; users can contribute fixes.

Extreme Programming and Agile Processes

Focuses on iterative and incremental approaches with stories assessing feature duration and cost.
Emphasizes immediate implementation over extensive documentation and close client collaboration.

Unique Features of XP

Continued client involvement and lack of specialization.
Design developed incrementally through refactoring rather than a centralized design phase.

Agile Processes Characteristics

Prioritizes working software, rapid development, and adaptability to changes.
XP exemplifies one of the agile paradigms.

Evaluating Agile Processes

Concerns over scalability and maintenance costs associated with refactoring in agile processes.

Synchronize-and-Stabilize Model

Microsoft’s approach that emphasizes risk management and regular synchronization/testing of project components.

Spiral Model

Highlights risk management and iterative design via rapid prototyping and verification before continuing development.
Accommodates risks associated with personnel and hardware reliability.

Full Spiral Model

Visualizes project cost and progression through distinct phases of objectives, risk analysis, and planning.

Analysis of Spiral Model

Strengths: Clear testing metrics and integration of development with maintenance.
Weaknesses: Limited application for large-scale and internal software projects.

Comparison of Life-Cycle Models

Each model possesses unique strengths and weaknesses; selection criteria include organization structure, management capability, employee skills, and product nature.
A hybrid "mix-and-match" approach to model selection is recommended for optimal results.

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Description

This quiz covers Chapter 2 from Stephen R. Schach's Software Engineering course, focusing on various software life cycle models. Participants will explore and compare models such as the Waterfall, Iterative-and-Incremental, and Agile processes, among others. It's designed to deepen your understanding of how these life cycle models influence software development.