Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Fig. 1.3
The spiral life cycle model (Boehm
1988
)
1.6 Chapter Conclusion and Summary
Software engineering has no simple definition. It can be understood as the
application of engineering-based methods to software development for the purpose
of delivering a software product on time and within budget. That software product
is not just a computer program, but includes all related documentation, distribu-
tions and packaging. The product is developed through the collaborative work of
stakeholders, which is comprised of all the individuals involved in the software
engineering project. The stakeholders engage in a set of software engineering
activities to work through the development process in an efficient and effective
manner. All of these aspects make up the diverse field of software engineering,
which involves not only computer science, but also many aspects from a multitude
of other disciplines, such as business and engineering. The upcoming chapters will
explore in detail the specific phases and aspects of the software development
process.
