Software Engineering Terms - C

CLIENT

1. The user point-of-entry for an application. Normally a software executable

residing on a desktop computer, workstation, or laptop computer. The user

generally interacts directly only with the client, using it to input, retrieve, analyze

and report on data.

2. A device or application that receives data from or manipulates a server device or

application.

CODE REVIEW

A meeting at which source code is presented for review, comment, or approval.

COMPONENT

One of the parts that make up a system. A component may be hardware, software, or

firmware and may be subdivided into other components.

COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Detailed, pre-programmed instructions that control and coordinate the work of computer

hardware and firmware components in an information system. 

COMPUTER-AIDED SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (CASE)

The automation of step-by -step methodologies for software and systems development to

reduce the amount of repetitive work required of the analyst or developer.

CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

A process that effectively controls the coordination and implementation of changes to

software components.

CONSTRAINT

A restriction, limitation, or regulation that limits a given course of action.

CONTEXT DIAGRAM

Overview data flow diagram depicting an entire system as a single process with its major

inputs and outputs.

CONVERSION

The process of changing from the old system to the new system.

CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS (CSFS)

A set of specific operational conditions shaped by the business environment that are

believed to significantly impact the success potential of an organization or business

function. In a software development effort, critical success factors are composed of

assumptions and dependencies that are generally outside the control of the development

team.

CUSTOMER RESOURCES

The number of subject matter experts for each Use Case (UC) in an application under

development. This project risk factor is considered low when more than one SME is

available perUC. A high risk ensues when outside SMEs are involved with a software

development effort.