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Analysis and Design
Structure Charts
Once the flow of data and control in the system is decided using tools like
DFDs and CFDs, the system is given shape through programming. Prior to this, the
basic infrastructure of the program layout is prepared based on the concepts of
modular programming.
In modular programming, the complete system is coded as small independent interacting
modules. Each module is aimed at doing one specific task. The design for these
modules is prepared in the form of structure charts.
A structure chart is a design tool that pictorially shows the relation between
processing modules in computer software. Describes the hierarchy of components
modules and the data are transmitted between them. Includes analysis of input-to-output
transformations and analysis of transaction.
Structure charts show the relation of processing modules in computer software.
It is a design tool that visually displays the relationships between program modules.
It shows which module within a system interacts and graphically depicts the data
that are communicated between various modules.
Structure charts are developed prior to the writing of program code. They identify
the data passes existing between individual modules that interact with one another.
They are not intended to express procedural logic. This task is left to flowcharts
and pseudocode. They don't describe the actual physical interface between processing
functions.
Notation
Program modules are identified by rectangles with the module name written inside
the rectangle.
Arrows indicate calls, which are any mechanism used to invoke a particular
module.
Fig 6.2 - Notation used in structure charts.
Annotations on the structure chart indicate the parameter that are passed and
the direction of the data movement. In fig. 6.3, we see that modules A and B interact.
Data identified as X and Y are passed to module B, which in turn passes back Z.
Fig 6.3 - Annotations and data passing in structure charts
A calling module can interact with more than one subordinate module. Fig. 6.3
also shows module L calling subordinate modules M and N. M is called on the basis
of a decision point in L (indicated by the diamond notation), while N is called
on the basis of the iterative processing loop (noted by the arc at the start of
the calling arrow.
Data passing
When one module calls another, the calling module can send data to the called
module so that it can perform the function described in its name. The called module
can produce data that are passed back to the calling module.
Two types of data are transmitted. The first, parameter data, are items of
data needed in the called module to perform the necessary work. A small arrow
with an open circle at the end is used to note the passing of data parameters.
In addition, control information (flag data) is also passed. Its purpose is to
assist in the control of processing by indicating the occurrence of, say, errors
or end-of-conditions. A small arrow with a closed circle indicates the control
information. A brief annotation describes the type of information passed.
Structure chart is a tool to assist the analyst in developing software that
meets the objectives of good software design.
See Also
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