Practice

Question 1

Essence of practice.

Answer 1

1. Understand the problem (communication and analysis).
2. Plan a solution (modeling and software design).
3. Carry out the plan (code generation).
4. Examine the result for accuracy (testing and quality assurance).

Question 2

Understand the problem.

Answer 2

1. Who has a stake in he solution?
2. What are the unknowns?
3. Can the problem be compartmentalised?
4. Can the problem be presented graphically?

Question 3

Principles.

Answer 3

1. The reason it all exist: to provide value to customers.
2. Keep It Simple (as possible but no simpler).
3. Maintain the vision.
4. What you produce others will consume.
5. Be open to the future.
6. Plan ahead for reuse.
7. Think (before doing)

Question 4

Communication practice.

Answer 4

1. Listen.
2. Prepare before you communicate.
3. Someone should facilitate communication: to keep direction, to mediate,
4. Face-to-face communication is best.
5. Take notes and document decisions.
6. Strive for collaboration.
7. Stay focused, modularise your discussion.
8. If something is unclear draw a picture,
9. If you agree on something, move on; if not - move on.
10. Negotiation works best if both parties win.

Question 5

Planning practice.

Answer 5

1. Understand the scope of the project.
2. Involve the customer in planning.
3. Recognise that planning is iterative.
4. Estimate based on what you know.
5. Consider risk.
6. Be realistic.
7. Adjust granularity as you define the plan.
8. Define how you intend to ensure quality.
9. Define how you intend to accommodate change.
10. Track the plan frequently and make adjustments as required.