Software Flashcards
Who invented software
Ada Lovelace developed the first algorithm (to produce a particular sequence of numbers)
What is an algorithm
An algorithm is a procedure used for solving a problem or performing a computation. An algorithm is an exact list of step-by-step instructions that conduct specific actions.
(like a recipe or SOPs)
Some algorithms use heuristics (like rules of thumb) to make quick, efficient judgment calls when all the necessary information is not available to make a precise decision, or when it would not be practical to process it at all
Who invented the Operating system
Ada Lovelace also thought of a way of feeding the instructions into the computer, using punched cards similar to those used in weaving
What is the software lifecycle
The most common development process for software is known as the waterfall model.
It splits the process into five separate phases.
The same model applies for generic/horizontal and for bespoke/vertical software
List the 5 phases of the waterfall model
Requirements analysis, and definition
System and software design
Implementation and unit testing
Integration and system testing
Operation and maintenance
Explain what the requirements analysis and definition phase in the waterfall model is
The system services, constraints and goals are established by consultation with system users. they are then defined in a manner which is understandable to both users and development staff
Explain what the system and software design phase in the waterfall model is
The systems design process separates the requirements as being either hardware or software on establishes an overall system architecture. Software design involves representing the software system functions so that they may be transformed into one or more programs
Explain what the implementation and unit testing phase in the waterfall model is
The software design is realized as a set of programs or pro units. Unit testing involves verifying that each unit meets its specification.
Explain what the integration and system testing phase in the waterfall model is
The individual program units or programs are integrated and tested as a complete system to ensure that the software requirements have been met. After testing, the software system is delivered to the customer.
Explain what the operation and maintenance phase in the waterfall model is
During this phase, the customer will usually have a support contract and pay an annual fee for licensing and/or support. This will depend on the hours support is available and the type of support (email, telephone, remote access, on site, etc.)
Maintenance involves correcting errors, which were not discovered in earlier stages of the lifecycle, improving the implementation of system units, and enhancing the systems’ services as new requirements are discovered.
It can also mean that new versions of the system are released from time to time usually every few years
What is database development process
DBMSs such as Access allow you to customize data in a structured, user-friendly manner, but before you can do this it is necessary to analyze your system requirements
What are the steps to analyzing your system requirements
- Decide on the information (mainly reports) that your system will provide – this will establish the information you need to collect
- Identify the various entities and design appropriate tables
- Decide on the relationship relationships between the tables
- Design queries and generate reports (from these queries and from tables) to output, the required information
- Generate forms for data entry
- Generate/modify the navigation forms
