Software Development Costs

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following describes a characteristic of effective software?

It must be understandable, usable, and compatible. (correct)

It must have minimal documentation.

It should consume as many resources as possible.

It should only function on one specific device.

What is included in the expenses for hardware and software costs?

Charges for office supplies.

Fees for leasing servers and software tools. (correct)

Costs for marketing software products.

Employee salaries.

Which aspect does not contribute to software maintainability?

Total independence from user input. (correct)

The ability to evolve with customer needs.

Regular updates and patches.

Facilitation of bug fixes and enhancements.

What role does Quality Assurance play in the software development process?

To ensure software passes all checks before release. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a technique or method in software engineering?

Customer satisfaction surveys. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following expenses is related to providing necessary development infrastructure?

Office space and infrastructure expenses. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is crucial for ensuring the dependability and security of software?

Consistency in reliability and security measures. Signup and view all the answers

How should software evolve to meet changing needs?

Through regular feedback from users. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of the Waterfall model in software development?

It follows a one-directional cascading manner. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a challenge in software engineering?

Minimizing costs of components Signup and view all the answers

What does Agile methodology prioritize in software development?

Adaptability and customer satisfaction Signup and view all the answers

How are costs typically allocated in software engineering projects?

Development costs represent 60%, Testing costs represent 40% Signup and view all the answers

What defines customized products in software engineering?

Products developed for a specific customer. Signup and view all the answers

What describes the Iterative & Incremental Development approach?

It is associated with Agile methodologies focusing on repetitiveness and small releases. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Agile methods like Scrum and Kanban?

To adapt quickly to changing requirements. Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes significantly to the increasing diversity challenge in software engineering?

The rapid evolution of technology and user needs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Software Development Overview

Software consists of programs, documentation, and configuration data, guiding hardware performance and functionality.
Development entails purchasing or leasing hardware and software tools essential for program execution.

Costs Involved in Software Development

Hardware and Software Costs include expenses for acquiring necessary resources.
Training and skill development costs pertain to educating team members on software use and development.
Licensing Fees are incurred for utilizing third-party libraries, frameworks, or tools, ensuring compliance and support.
Office Space and Infrastructure expenses cover workspace allocation, computer provision, and developmental resources.

Software Characteristics

Efficiency requires optimal resource usage, maximizing CPU and RAM without wastage.
Acceptability focuses on software being understandable, user-friendly, and compatible across systems.
Dependability and Security emphasize the need for reliable, secure, and trustworthy software systems.
Maintainability is essential for software to evolve based on changing customer needs and includes regular “Security Patches.”

Key Components and Technologies

Chrome utilizes significant RAM, while mobile phones can lead to CPU overheating due to high energy consumption.
Windows incorporates AI functionalities, like "Copilot," to meet evolving user requirements.

Challenges in Software Engineering

Developing trustworthy software is critical, as is managing diversity and addressing demands for quicker delivery times.
Prompt issue resolution is vital to maintain progress.

Cost Distribution in Software Engineering

Development represents 60% of total costs; testing accounts for 40%.
Evolution costs for custom software may surpass initial development costs.

Personnel and Product Types

Personnel costs cover salaries and benefits for team members involved in software creation.
Three product types:
- Generic products, suitable for a broad audience (e.g., databases).
- Customized products tailored for specific clients (e.g., control systems).
- Blurred distinctions occur as systems adapt generic products for unique needs (e.g., Mac OS built on Linux).

Methodologies in Software Development

Waterfall Model

Follows a linear, cascading sequence where completion of each phase is mandatory before progressing.
Best suited for projects with clearly defined requirements and minimal anticipated changes.

Agile Methodology

Emphasizes adaptability, teamwork, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
Iterative and incremental approaches aid in accommodating shifting requirements and enhancing software functionality.
Common Agile methods include Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming (XP), which stress daily communication with clients for ongoing improvement.

Iterative & Incremental Development

Closely associated with Agile approaches, promoting flexibility and rapid delivery through gradual enhancements.

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Description

This quiz explores the key expenses associated with software development, including hardware and software costs, as well as training and skill development. Understand the financial implications of acquiring the necessary tools and resources for effective program creation.