Software Product Design

Software Product Design
A Definition

Prof. David Bernstein
James Madison University

Computer Science Department

bernstdh@jmu.edu

Definitions

Software Design:
- Software design is the process of specifying the nature and composition of a software system that satisfies client needs and desires, subject to constraints. (Fox, 2006)
Software Product Design:
- Software product design is the process of specifying software product features, capabilities and interfaces to satisfy client needs and desires. (Fox, 2006)

Product Design Phases

Product Design Phases (cont.)

Analysis results in Needs:
- A statement of the "problem"
- For example, "The user needs to ..."
Resolution results in Requirements:
- A statement of the "solution"
- For example, "The product must..."

Product Design in Context

In Heavyweight/Non-Incremental Software Processes:
- Product design is (mostly) completed "up front" and the result is (mostly) "set in stone"/"non-negotiable" (as would be the case for a manufactured product)
- Analysis is (mostly) completed before resolution begins (though there is often some iteration)
In Agile/Incremental Processes:
- Product design is a "just in time" activity (i.e., just enough of the users' needs are identified to create requirements that allow construction to begin/continue)
- The product is modified continuously (based on conversations and negotiations with stakeholders)