Software Evolution and Maintenance (SEAM) Lecture 1: Course Outline and Topics Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the Software Evolution & Maintenance course?

Fixing defects and adding new features to existing software applications (correct)

Developing new software applications

Analyzing global software industry trends

Reducing the cost of software development projects

According to the course outline, why may maintenance costs increase up to 90% of the total development cost of a project?

Because of the increasing complexity of software applications

As a result of requirement errors (correct)

Because of the need for enhancing software features

Due to the time required for fixing defects

What metaphor is used to emphasize the importance of software maintenance?

Evolving from theory to practical implementation

Stellar growth of the global software industry

Theory to Practice

Buy the Slave and Do Not Grow Him (correct)

How does the course describe the growth of the global software industry?

As witnessing stellar growth for three decades Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of software evolution and maintenance?

Continual change from a lesser state to a higher state Signup and view all the answers

According to Mehdi Jazayer's view on software evolution, what evolves over time?

The measures of products and processes Signup and view all the answers

What does Mehdi Jazayer's view on software evolution imply about the evolution process?

It is self-regulating Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the concept of software maintenance?

All support activities carried out after delivery of software are put under the category of maintenance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main implication of the law of conservation of organizational stability in software evolution?

The average effort needed to produce a new release remains almost the same Signup and view all the answers

What does software maintenance aim to prevent?

Failure to deliver the intended functionalities by means of bug fixing Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of software evolution?

Effecting changes in requirements Signup and view all the answers

Which activity falls under the category of software evolution?

Effecting changes in requirements Signup and view all the answers

What does software maintenance prevent from occurring?

Increasing complexity of the system due to maintenance-related changes Signup and view all the answers

What is the main implication of Mehdi Jazayer's view on software evolution?

Our knowledge about a particular type of software evolves over time. Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of software evolution entail?

A continual change from a lesser, simpler, or worse state to a higher or better state. Signup and view all the answers

What does the law of continuing change in software evolution imply?

The system must be continually modified to satisfy emerging needs of users. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Software Evolution & Maintenance Course Focus

Emphasizes the importance of software evolution and maintenance in ensuring software systems remain functional and relevant over time.
Addresses how software needs to adapt to changes in user requirements and technological advancements.

Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs can escalate to 90% of total development costs due to factors like ongoing updates, bug fixes, and the need for system upgrades.
These costs highlight the long-term investment required for software upkeep after initial development.

Metaphor for Software Maintenance

Software maintenance is likened to preserving a building, stressing the idea that just as a building needs upkeep to retain its value, software requires regular maintenance to function effectively.

Growth of Global Software Industry

The global software industry has experienced significant growth, driven by increasing reliance on technology across various sectors.
This growth underscores the critical role of software in modern economies and business operations.

Main Focus of Software Evolution and Maintenance

Focuses on adapting software to meet changing requirements and ensuring its longevity and utility in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Evolution According to Mehdi Jazayer

Over time, software, user needs, and technology itself evolve, necessitating ongoing adjustments to software systems.
Implies that evolution is a continuous process, requiring proactive management and adaptation.

Concept of Software Maintenance

Software maintenance involves activities aimed at correcting, enhancing, and adapting software post-deployment to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
It reflects the recognition that development is only the beginning of a software’s lifecycle.

Law of Conservation of Organizational Stability

Implies that while software evolves, organizations strive to maintain stability amid changes, balancing innovation with operational consistency.

Prevention Goals of Software Maintenance

Aims to prevent software obsolescence, system failures, and user dissatisfaction by continuously improving and updating software.

Focus of Software Evolution

Focuses on the necessary adaptations and enhancements to software over time to align with new requirements and environments.

Activities in Software Evolution

Includes modifications, updates, and enhancements of existing systems to adapt to new user needs, technologies, and regulations.

Implications of Mehdi Jazayer’s View

Suggests a dynamic understanding of software systems, where continual change is expected and managed as a normal part of the software lifecycle.

Conceptual Framework of Software Evolution

Encompasses the processes and methodologies used to keep software relevant and functional throughout its operational life.

Law of Continuing Change in Software Evolution

Implies that software must continuously evolve to meet emerging challenges and opportunities, as static systems risk becoming outdated.

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Description

This quiz covers the course outline, assessment details, and an overview of the topics discussed in the first lecture of the Software Evolution and Maintenance (SEAM) course at Cairo University's Faculty of Graduate Studies for Statistical Research, Department of Computer and Information Sciences.