Module 1: Introduction to Software Engineering

1. Explain the seven broad categories of software in software engineering with examples.

1. System Software: These programs manage hardware and other software systems.
They provide a platform for running application software. Example: Operating
Systems like Windows, Linux, Unix; Compiler and Disk Management Software.

2. Application Software: Developed to help users perform specific tasks such as word
processing or data management. Example: MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, database
software.

3. Engineering and Scientific Software: These are mathematical, analytical, and

simulation software tools used in research and engineering domains. Example:
MATLAB, Simulink, AutoCAD.

4. Embedded Software: Software embedded in hardware systems, often with real-time

constraints. Example: Software in washing machines, GPS devices, routers.

5. Product-line Software: Software products that are customized and reused across a
specific product line. Example: Microsoft Office suite, Antivirus programs like Norton
or McAfee.

6. Web Applications: Client-server software applications that run in a web browser and
perform specific functionalities. Example: Google Docs, Gmail, Amazon Shopping
Portal.

7. Artificial Intelligence Software: Designed to emulate human decision-making and

learning processes. Example: Chatbots, autonomous vehicles, speech recognition
systems, recommendation engines.

2. Advantages and disadvantages of software engineering with a systematic and

disciplined approach.

Advantages:

 Improved Quality: Less prone to bugs and errors due to formalized methodologies.

 Increased Productivity: Faster development through reuse and organized processes.

 Maintainability: Easier to modify and scale.

 Cost Efficiency: Early identification of errors saves money.

 Customer Satisfaction: Delivers what is expected, improving trust.

 Collaboration: Better team communication using standards and documentation.

Disadvantages:

 High Upfront Costs: Investment in tools, technologies, and training.

 Less Flexibility: Rigid methodologies may not adapt well to changing requirements.

 Overhead: Process-oriented environments can become bureaucratic.

 Learning Curve: Requires a solid understanding of engineering principles.

 Tool Dependency: Quality depends on chosen tools and proper usage.

3. Describe the phases of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) with a neat diagram.

1. Requirement Analysis: Gather and document functional and non-functional

requirements.

2. System Design: Create architecture, design databases, and UI.

3. Implementation: Code development using programming languages.

4. Testing: Verification and validation through different levels (unit, integration, system).

5. Deployment: Releasing the software for production use.

6. Maintenance: Bug fixing, updates, and enhancements.

Diagram:

Requirement Analysis → System Design → Implementation → Testing → Deployment →

Maintenance

4. Waterfall vs Agile Models

Waterfall Model:

 Linear, sequential approach.

 Each phase must be completed before moving to the next.

 Suitable for projects with well-defined requirements.

Agile Model:

 Iterative and incremental development.

 Continuous feedback from users.

 Ideal for dynamic environments where requirements evolve.

Differences:
Criteria Waterfall Agile

Process Sequential Iterative

Flexibility Rigid Highly adaptive

Customer Involvement Minimal High involvement

Testing Post-implementation Continuous

Risk Handling High risk Low due to early testing

5. Incremental and Iterative Models

Incremental Model:

 Software is developed and delivered in parts (increments).

 Each increment adds a set of functionalities.

Iterative Model:

 Initial version is developed quickly, and improvements are made through multiple
iterations.

 Emphasizes refinement and gradual development.

Diagrams:

 Incremental: Module A → Module B → Final Integration

 Iterative: Prototype → Feedback → Enhancement → Final Product

6. Spiral and Big Bang Models

Spiral Model:

 Combines elements of design and prototyping.

 Focuses on risk management.

 Each spiral loop includes: Planning, Risk Analysis, Engineering, and Evaluation.

Big Bang Model:

 Development starts with no formal plan.

 Resources are invested, and coding begins based on understanding.

Advantages:
  Spiral: Risk analysis, client feedback.

 Big Bang: Flexible, simple to initiate.

Disadvantages:

 Spiral: Complex, costly for small projects.

 Big Bang: Lack of structure, unpredictable outcomes.

...

7. Explain V&V Model with diagram. What is Rapid Application Development (RAD) and
how does it benefit software projects?

V&V Model (Verification and Validation Model):

 Emphasizes that each development activity is matched with a corresponding testing

activity.

 The left side of the 'V' represents specification and design; the right side represents
validation and testing.

Diagram:

Requirements → System Design → Architecture Design → Module Design → Coding

↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓

Acceptance ← System Testing ← Integration Testing ← Unit Testing

RAD Model:

 Focuses on rapid prototyping with minimal planning.

 High user involvement and quick iterations of development.

Benefits of RAD:

 Rapid delivery of functional software.

 Encourages customer feedback.

 Flexible to changes in requirements.

 Efficient for small to medium-sized projects.

8. Define a software crisis. What are the key factors contributing to the software crisis?

Software Crisis: Refers to the difficulties and failures experienced in early software projects
due to lack of proper methodologies, tools, and planning.
Key Contributing Factors:

 Increasing software complexity.

 Lack of formal engineering practices.

 Frequent project delays and budget overruns.

 Poor quality and unreliable output.

 Rapid technological evolution.

 Inadequate resources and tools.

9. How does the Agile methodology improve software development? Explain Scrum model
along with advantages and disadvantages.

Agile Methodology:

 Encourages adaptive planning, early delivery, and continuous improvement.

 Supports flexibility in evolving requirements.

 Enhances team collaboration and transparency.

Scrum Model:

 A subset of Agile; uses time-boxed iterations called sprints.

 Roles include Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Team Members.

 Ceremonies include Sprint Planning, Daily Stand-ups, Sprint Review, and

Retrospective.

Advantages:

 High customer satisfaction.

 Quick identification and resolution of issues.

 Improved team morale and ownership.

Disadvantages:

 Requires experienced team members.

 Difficult to scale in large projects.

 May lack detailed documentation.

11. Define project and discuss types of projects in software engineering.

Project: A temporary and unique endeavor undertaken to create a product, service, or
result. In software engineering, a project has defined objectives, timelines, resources, and
deliverables.

Types of Software Projects:

1. Development Projects: Create new software from scratch.

2. Maintenance Projects: Modify and enhance existing systems.

3. Migration Projects: Shift systems to new platforms.

4. Research and Development Projects: Explore innovative technologies or algorithms.

5. Integration Projects: Combine different systems to work as one.

12. Sketch and describe the project life cycle steps in software engineering.

The Project Life Cycle consists of:

1. Initiation: Define goals, feasibility, and stakeholders.

2. Planning: Develop schedules, budgets, and project plans.

3. Execution: Build deliverables and manage teams.

4. Monitoring and Controlling: Track progress, manage changes.

5. Closure: Deliver output, evaluate performance, release resources.

Each phase ensures structured management and successful delivery.

13. Define product and explain types of products in Product Management.

Product: A tangible or intangible item developed to fulfill a market need or customer

requirement.

Types of Software Products:

1. Generic Products: Developed for a broad market (e.g., MS Office).

2. Customized Products: Built for specific clients or organizations.

3. Embedded Products: Integrated within hardware (e.g., vehicle control systems).

4. Web-based Products: Accessible via the internet (e.g., online banking portals).

14. Summarize the key aspects that define a product in product management.
Key aspects include:

 Customer Need: Solves a real-world problem.

 Usability: Easy and intuitive interface.

 Functionality: Meets defined features and objectives.

 Market Fit: Aligns with current demand.

 Quality: Free of bugs, secure, and efficient.

 Maintainability: Can evolve with changing requirements.

16. Describe the Evolutionary Model with neat diagram.

Evolutionary Model:

 It is a combination of iterative and incremental models.

 Emphasizes developing an initial version and refining it through customer feedback

and repeated iterations.

Phases:

1. Initial Specification

2. Development

3. Validation

4. Feedback & Refinement

Diagram:

Initial Version → Feedback → Improved Version → Final Product

Use Case: Useful in projects where complete requirements are not known from the start.

17. What are applications of the Evolutionary Model and discuss the necessary conditions
for implementing this model.

Applications:

 Complex business systems

 Software with high user interaction

 AI systems or data-driven products

Necessary Conditions:

 Active user involvement

  Ability to accommodate change

 Strong version control and documentation

 Experienced development team

18. Discuss advantages and disadvantages of the Evolutionary Model in software

engineering.

Advantages:

 Allows early delivery of partial functionality

 Continuous feedback improves quality

 Helps in risk management

 Flexible to changing requirements

Disadvantages:

 Difficult to manage versions and feedback loops

 Frequent changes may delay final delivery

 High documentation needs

19. Different phases of Prototype Model and discuss advantages and disadvantages of
Prototype Model.

Phases:

1. Requirements Gathering

2. Quick Design

3. Prototype Building

4. User Evaluation

5. Refinement

6. Final Product Development

Advantages:

 Early detection of requirement issues

 High user involvement and satisfaction

 Reduces risk of system failure

Disadvantages:

 Users may mistake prototype as the final system

 Frequent iterations may increase cost

 Poor documentation if not managed well

20. Discuss the overview of system engineering with diagram and applications.

System Engineering:

 A multidisciplinary approach to develop large and complex systems, integrating

software, hardware, processes, and human interaction.

Steps in System Engineering:

1. System Requirements Definition

2. System Design

3. Implementation

4. Integration & Testing

5. Deployment

6. Maintenance

Diagram:

Concept → Requirements → Design → Implementation → Testing → Maintenance

Applications:

 Aerospace systems

 Healthcare equipment

 Telecommunications

 Manufacturing automation systems