2A: RAD

Question 1

what does RAD create

Answer 1

allows usable systems in a small time frame, introduced to overcome long delays from other methods

Question 2

RAD disadvantages - general

Answer 2

reduced quality, compromises made between less usable and efficient over high number of errors

Question 3

main language used in RAD

Answer 3

4th generation languages; allow visual production of UI + integration of reusable components into new products with little actual programming

Question 4

personnel requirements of RAD

Answer 4

• developers: analysts, designers, programmers all in one
• users need to be fully involved, part of team + full time

Question 5

tools used in RAD

Answer 5

• 4GL elements
• standard APIs
• CASE tools
• prototype + simulation tools

Question 6

API meaning

Answer 6

application programmer interface
- set of functions and procedures built into operating system used by programmers

Question 7

under what conditions does RAD tend to work

Answer 7

• standalone machines
• performance not critical
• major use of existing modules
• low product distribution
• reliability not crucial

Question 8

under what conditions does RAD tend not to work

Answer 8

• requires interface with other software
• few existing modules used
• optimal performance + reliability is a requirement
• broad audience

Question 9

rapid prototyping

Answer 9

RAD: uses prototyping methodology
- prototypes used in team meetings to clarify requirements
- approach: rapid prototyping

Question 10

advantages of RAD

Answer 10

• buying modules = cheap
• reduced manual coding
• fewer errors from CASE tools
• shorter dev cycle = cheap
• standardized look + feel

Question 11

disadvantages of RAD - specific

Answer 11

• buying modules = expensive
• other software requirements
• less efficient code if not hand crafted
• reliance on third party modules: sacrificed functionality, added unnecessary functionality, legal problems

Question 12

characteristics of RAD

Answer 12

lack of formal stages, use of existing routines, CASE tools + IDEs, client + dev communication, short time, small-scale, low budget

Question 13

end user meaning

Answer 13

the final person or persons who operate a software package

Question 14

why has end user become increasingly popular

Answer 14

because application packages have been released onto the market, which can be customized by users with limited SD expertise

Question 15

what does end user involve

Answer 15

businesses creating their own products by customizing other applications

Question 16

end user advantages

Answer 16

for small businesses/home users: do not need to pay for custom solutions, able to revise + upgrade, automates functions at low cost

Question 17

end user disadvantages

Answer 17

• must be compromise between requirements + functionality of app being customized
• may be inefficient
• errors from lack of knowledge of user-developer, therefore low quality

Question 18

end user characteristics

Answer 18

• use of standard software packages
• end user = dev + maintainer
• small budget + short time
• lack of formal stages

Question 19

combinations of software development approaches

Answer 19

depending on nature of particular problem