Questions and Answers
What is top-down design?
A top-down design is the decomposition of a system into smaller parts in order to comprehend its compositional sub-systems. It includes designing the system's overview, specifying first-level subsystems without detailing them. It is also known as a stepwise design.
What happens in top-down design?
A system's overview is designed, specifying first-level subsystems. Each subsystem is then refined in greater detail, dividing into various levels until the basic elements are reached.
What is the explanation of top-down design?
A top-down design is a plan made in plain English, independent of any programming language. It breaks tasks into extensive subtasks to simplify coding and continues subdivision until each portion can be coded easily.
What is the highest level in top-down design called?
Signup and view all the answers
Give an example of top-down design.
Signup and view all the answers
What are the advantages of top-down design? (Select all that apply)
Signup and view all the answers
What are the disadvantages of top-down design? (Select all that apply)
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Top-Down Design Overview
- Top-down design decomposes a system into smaller, manageable parts to understand its sub-systems.
- Also known as stepwise design, it begins with a high-level overview without detailing first-level subsystems.
Process of Top-Down Design
- The system's overview is initially outlined before refining subsystems into greater detail.
- This approach involves dividing subsystems into multiple levels, simplifying the overall specification to fundamental components.
Explanation and Characteristics
- Plans for top-down design are written in plain English, independent of any programming language.
- The focus is on breaking complex tasks into fewer extensive subtasks, facilitating easier coding.
- If subtasks exceed a few lines of code, further subdivision is recommended to maintain clarity and simplicity in implementation.
Highest Level in Top-Down Design
- The main module, also referred to as level 0, represents the highest level in this design methodology.
- At this stage, the number of subtasks should be minimal, typically ranging from three to seven.
Practical Example
- An example of top-down design is selecting a custom fastener, like a bolt, followed by designing the receiving components to ensure a proper fit.
Advantages of Top-Down Design
- Simplicity: By breaking programs into smaller parts, complexity is reduced.
- Speed: Streamlined decision-making processes enhance efficiency.
- Code Reuse: Facilitates reuse of written code across different program segments, minimizing the need for redundancy.
Disadvantages of Top-Down Design
- Low Participation: Limited involvement may hinder effective plan implementation.
- High Knowledge Requirement: Success relies on a comprehensive understanding at the top level of the design.
- Neglect of Specialized Knowledge: Risks overlooking expertise that may exist within lower levels of the organization.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore the fundamentals of top-down design through these flashcards. Understand the process of breaking down systems into smaller components to facilitate better design and comprehension. Perfect for students learning about design methodologies.
