7 - Methodology, Application Development, and System Architecture

Abstract

This chapter explores methodologies, types of methodologies, process models, application development environments, emulators, and tools. It also discusses integrated development environments (IDE), and hardware and system architecture. Methodology directly addresses the application development and project management of the upcoming project. Two of the methodologies are the waterfall method and the extreme programming model. It is noted that any number of methods can be used to develop a software project. Process model refers to building a commonality of thought processes in scope, features, deliverables, and expectations throughout the system development life cycle. It is also observed that every process model exhibits some level of requirements that need to be met and there is essentially a systems project as a deliverable to answer these requirements. The waterfall method is a deliberate and calculated system of structured development. One of the major characteristic of this type of development is the heavy emphasis on the requirements document. However, extreme programming relies on user stories. This storyboarding of ideas and concepts embraces change more readily and allows for more opportunity in what the customer actually needs and wants.