Why do we need a Software Engineering and explain the characteristics of a good Software ?

Need of Software Engineering :

The need of software engineering arises because of higher rate of change in user requirements and environment on which the software is working. Following are some of the needs stated:

·        Large software - It is easier to build a wall than a house or building, likewise, as the size of the software becomes large, engineering has to step to give it a scientific process.

·        Scalability- If the software process were not based on scientific and engineering concepts, it would be easier to re-create new software than to scale an existing one.

·        Cost- As hardware industry has shown its skills and huge manufacturing has lower down the price of computer and electronic hardware. But, cost of the software remains high if proper process is not adapted.

·        Dynamic Nature- Always growing and adapting nature of the software hugely depends upon the environment in which the user works. If the nature of software is always changing, new enhancements need to be done in the existing one. This is where the software engineering plays a good role.

·        Quality Management- Better process of software development provides better and quality software product.

Characteristics of good software :

A software product can be judged by what it offers and how well it can be used. This software must satisfy on the following characteristics:

·        Operational

·        Transitional

·        Maintenance

Well-engineered and crafted software is expected to have the following characteristics:

Operational :

This tells us how well the software works in operations. It can be measured on:

·        Budget

·        Usability

·        Efficiency

·        Correctness

·        Functionality

·        Dependability

·        Security

·        Safety

Transitional :

This aspect is important when the software is moved from one platform to another:

·        Portability

·        Interoperability

·        Reusability

·        Adaptability

Maintenance :

This aspect briefs about how well the software has the capabilities to maintain itself in the ever-changing environment:

·        Modularity

·        Maintainability

·        Flexibility

Scalability