2-4.
DEVELOPING THE PROGRAM (SOLVING THE PROBLEM
a. A structured approach to problem-solving and program development is
essential, especially with the variety of programming languages, processing techniques,
storage devices, and printing media available today. Programmers often approach the
program development/problem-solving task by using the four-step process, shown in
figure 2-1.
Figure 2-1. Steps in developing a program.
b. The first step is to define the problem, that is, to determine the exact nature
and extent of the problem to be solved. The next step, designing the solution, entails
combining the four basic patterns of program logic to produce the required output. The
third step, writing the program, means selecting the appropriate computer language and
coding program statements in computer-acceptable form. The final step, compiling,
involves encoding, that is, translating program statements into a form the computer can
understand. Debugging involves correcting poorly written statements and eliminating
logic errors. Testing means trying the program out to see if it processes data the way it
was intended.
encode: convert the information into computer language.
2-5.
DEFINING THE PROBLEM
a. What Is the Desired Output? When a programmer/analyst receives a
request from management or other users, he begins by looking at the desired output. In
defining the output required, the programmer prepares mock-ups to show his
prospective users. In this way, the programmer can verify the output requirements,
determine format, and avoid omissions or invalid assumptions about the purpose of the
program.
b. Input. By reviewing the available data, the programmer can determine what
new data is needed to provide the required information, and what format the input
should be in.
MD0058
2-3