Prototyping and Design 1

[RekhaShah]

Hi,

We are to develop a stand alone product. We have been requested to develop the prototype first. So when does designing of the product happen.

We have been adviced this:
First develop the prototype. Then decide on the features. Then decide the usecases and proceed with normal design. Is this correct?

Rekha

 

[DonQuichote]

You must have some coarse view of the application. From there, don't go into all details, but work them out individually. Work in small iterations and have a few feature working in every release. See also

http://www.xprogramming.com/xpmag/whatisxp.htm#small

This way, the customer can adjust the way the program develops (in both your and his own view).

In every iteration, you will have design, redesign and implementation.

Best regards

 

[palbano]

>> Is this correct?

The Software Process should not be static.
Process review and change is essential to success.

A Software Process should not be used in a prescriptive fashion. The process is a collection of tools to be used by architects, analysts and engineers rather than rules to be followed by them.

-pete
_{I just can't seem to get back my IntelliSense}

 

[RekhaShah]

Hi all,

Thanks for the replies.

Here is what we have done.

1. We did break up the functionality into different modules.
2. Determine the data that would be required.
3. Determine the validation rules for the fields
4. Made the prototype.

Where do the usecases come in ? After step 4?

Rekha

 

[Craig0201]

Use cases are the functionality????

Craig

 

[DonQuichote]

Where do the usecases come in ? After step 4?

Yes, and before step one. You have an iterative process. You decide what functionality your new prototype is going to have and make it. Your customer then looks at it, have some remarks and you decide together what is needed and is possible in the next prototype.
If you have a sensible customer (and, off course, if you are sensible enough), the prototype evolves towards a final application that is acceptable by both you and the customer.

Best regards