The computer program design life cycle is simple, yet probably not something one would think of when first learning programming. Remember, major programming is done in teams of people working to create a product for an end user.
1. Understand:
-You must understand what is required of you, where the program is going and what your part in all of this is.
2. Plan:
-Write it down! Whether you use flowcharts or psuedocode you need to have a plan before you start programming.
3. Code:
-This is where most people want to start, but it is important to follow through with the first steps. This is true in more than just programming. Planning will save you headaches here!
4. Compile:
- Here is where you use a compiler to translate your code to machine language. If you have followed proper programming protocol (syntax) you now have a working computer program!
5. Test:
- You thought you were done there??? Not quite yet! Now it's time to test the product, fix any bugs, and if necessary go back through the previous steps until you have a workable bug free (to the greatest extent possible, all sizable programs will have bugs) program.
6. Launch:
- Your program finally gets an audience. Months of staring at a screen and 4 cases of Red Bull later and you have the satisfaction of watching your program in action. Ahhh yesss....
7. Maintain:
- If only that were it. Many customers will want support, updates will have to be put out as new bugs are found. This step lasts as long as there is a reasonable need and as long as the program's design is still reasonably usable. As new technology emerges your program may (will) become obsolete and need to be brought into the new generation. And the cycle begins anew...
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