UNIT-1 Chapter-1: Introduction FAQs about software engineering What is software? Many people equate the term software with computer programs. However, software is not just the programs but also all associated documentation and configuration data that is needed to make programs operate correctly. A software system usually consists of a number of separate programs, configuration files, which are used to set up these programs, system documentation, which describes the structure of the system, and user documentation, which explains how to use the system and web sites for users to download recent product information. There are two fundamental types of software product: 1. Generic products: These are stand-alone systems that are produced by a development organisation and sold on the open market to any customer who is able to buy them. Examples of this type of product include software for PCs such as databases, word processors, drawing packages and project management tools. 2. Customised (or bespoke) products: These are systems which are commissioned by a particular customer. A software contractor develops the software especially for that customer. Examples of this type of software include control systems for electronic devices, systems written to support a particular business process and air traffic control systems. What is software engineering? Software engineering is an engineering discipline that is concerned with all aspects of software production from the early stages of system specification to maintaining the system after it has gone into use. In this definition, there are two key phrases: Engineering discipline Engineers make things work. They apply theories, methods and tools where these are appropriate, but they use them selectively
UNIT-1 Chapter-1: Introduction FAQs about software engineering What is software? Many people equate the term software with computer programs. However, software is not just the programs but also all associated documentation and configuration data that is needed to make programs operate correctly. A software system usually consists of a number of separate programs, configuration files, which are used to set up these programs, system documentation, which describes the structure of the system, and user documentation, which explains how to use the system and web sites for users to download recent product information. There are two fundamental types of software product: 1. Generic products: These are stand-alone systems that are produced by a development organisation and sold on the open market to any customer who is able to buy them. Examples of this type of product include software for PCs such as databases, word processors, drawing packages and project management tools. 2. Customised (or bespoke) products: These are systems which are commissioned by a particular customer. A software contractor develops the software especially for that customer. Examples of this type of software include control systems for electronic devices, systems written to support a particular business process and air traffic control systems. What is software engineering? Software engineering is an engineering discipline that is concerned with all aspects of software production from the early stages of system specification to maintaining the system after it has gone into use. In this definition, there are two key phrases: Engineering discipline Engineers make things work. They apply theories, methods and tools where these are appropriate, but they use them selectively
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