This text provides a comprehensive, but concise introduction to software engineering. It adopts a methodical approach to solving software engineering problems. It is based on lecture notes that have been tested and proven over several years, with outstanding results. The book discusses concepts, principles, design, construction, implementation, and management issues of software systems. Each chapter is organized systematically into brief, reader-friendly sections, with itemization of the important points to be remembered. Diagrams and illustrations also sum up the salient points to enhance learning. Additionally, the book includes a number of Foster s original methodologies that add clarity and creativity to the software engineering experience, while making a novel contribution to the discipline. Upholding his aim for brevity, comprehensive coverage, and relevance, Foster s practical and methodical discussion style gets straight to the salient issues, and avoids unnecessary fluff as well as an overkill of theoretical calculations. Students and entry-level software engineers alike should find this approach useful in their respective needs. Brief Contents Division Fundamentals
1. Introduction to Software Engineering
2. The Role of the Software Engineer Division Software Investigation & Analysis
3. Project Selection and Initial System Requirements
4. The Requirements Specification
5. Information Gathering
6. Communicating Via Diagram
7. Decision Models for System Logic
8. Project Management Aids Division Software Design
9. Overview of Software Design
10. Database Design
11. User Interface Design
12. Operations Design
13. Other Design Considerations Division Software Development