Software Development Overview

There are two types of software which are:

1.   System Software  ===>>  Utilities, Operating System, Translators
2.   Application Software

There are three basic programming languages which are:

1.   Machine Language
2.   Assembly Language
3.   High-Level Language

An assembler converts a source code of an assembly language to an object code.
A software is a set of instructions developed to perform a particular task.

7 Steps Involved In Software Development

1.   Problem Definition
2.   Program Design
3.   Program Coding
4.   Debugging
5.   Testing
6.   Documentation
7.   Maintenance and Redesign

Techniques Used in Program Design are:

1.   Algorithm
2.   Flow Chart
3.   Pseudocode
4.   Structured Programming
5.   Top Down Design

An algorithm is a precise and finite sequence of actions or instructions required by computer to solve a particular problem.

A flow chart is a capital description of a program or system.

Top Down Design/Step wise refining:  The task to be performed is broken down into a few sub tasks which are then each decomposed into smaller sub tasks.

The three basic control structures are:

1.   Sequence
2.   Selection
3.   Iteration

Pseudocode:  This is an aggravated form of a solution for a program.

Program Coding:  This is the writing of the actual source code with either assembly or high-level language.

Debugging:   This is the checking and elimination of errors or bugs in a program.

Testing: This is the simple running of the program to ensure it performs to standard.

Documentation:   This is the writing in the detail how the program was developed and actions carried out.

Maintenance and Redesign:   This is the servicing, improvement and maintenance of a program.