Programming

Clarify Programming Needs

Six mini steps:

• Clarify objectives and users
• Clarify desired outputs
• Clarify desired inputs
• Clarify desired processing
• Double - check feasibility of implementing the program
• Document the analysis

Design the Program

Programs use algorithms which are like equations that tell the computer what task to perform. The aim of the programmer is to create algorithms that are clear and simple. Algorithms are expressed first in logical hierarchical form known as modularzation. Using modules or (a complete thought) the programmer creates a logical thought process for the computer to follow. After that the program is broken down in greater detail using pseudocode. Pseudocode uses terms like if, else, and, then to relate the programs rules to the computer.

Code the Program

After the program has been designed it must be coded or written. Using the pseudocode and logic requirements from step two an appropriate programming language must be selected. As stated in the introduction, coding languages differ in specifications and usability. Once the appropriate code language has been chosen, it is imperative that the programmer follow the syntax rules with as little deviation as possible in oder for the program to have high accuraccy.

Two mini steps:

• Select the appropriate high-level programming language
• Code the program in that language following the syntax carefully

Test the Program

Testing the program comes in two phases, alpha and beta.

• Alpha testing is the process of reading through the program in search of errors in logic. The second step is to run a diagnostic program to search for syntax or input errors.
• Beta testing involves using the program in the real world to see if it contains any bugs or other deficiencies.

Document and Maintain

Documentation should be ongoing from the very beginning because it is needed for those involved with program now and future. Upon completion User Documentation for commercial use, Operator Documentation for people who run computer systems, and Programmer Documentation for programmers charged with maintenance.

Four mini steps:

• Write user documentation
• Write operator documentation
• Write programmer documentation
• Maintain the program

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/The_Computer_Revolution/Programming/Five_Steps_of_Programming