Specs Several

What is a good program spec?

Author: Tim Bryce

"Whenever you see a ratio of 1:4 analysts: programmers, are the systems of analysis performed at the wrong time and the wrong person. "
- Bryce's Law

INTRODUCTION

Since the industry is concerned with the fastest software production
(and not necessarily the best), let us pause and consider how to approach programming in general and left me I put in the rotation. Basically, there are three aspects to any effort to program development: defining the program specifications, design and write the program itself, and testing. The gurus of the software engineering industry are primarily responsible for the internal design of the program, but this
is now a number of consultants trying to determine how best to
The focus of the program out. Why? Because they are now many ways to produce software for writing all the source code using a common text editor, such as programming aids prototyping tools for visual /, workbenches, 4GL, generators software, tools, etc. This brings the need to write code specific source programmers hands and lets them focus on the basic screen and the presentation reporting. They are excellent tools for most programming tasks, but can not make 100% of all programming for all applications. Yet
Professional software developer with extensive knowledge of programming languages and design techniques. Whether you write a program in hand, or use a kind of interpreter / generator, it is still necessary to accurately predict the specifications of the programmer to do their jobs.

It is rare for companies use the same method to develop the program specifications. It is not uncommon for programmers to get specifications so dark, like a letter to an end user (the back of a napkin, is my personal favorite). The specifications are rarely defined in a can always be fully evaluated. A standard approach to improve productivity and communication within the programming team only.

What specifications should include good program? Actually, not too
difficult to understand ...

ELEMENTS OF A PROGRAM OF EXPERTISE

Each program must be defined in terms of:

  1. Descriptions input (to collect data or solicit exit) - to be implemented through a graphical interface to the command line, oral, optical, or other screen interface. Everyone work should include:

    a. Name, alternate ID, program label, description.
    b. Design and sample set.
    c. Specifications Operation input, including default values
    and publishing standards for data collection.
    d. Messages, for example, validation of data, and treatment in general.
    e. Panels (for screens).
    f. Relationship between inputs to outputs.

  2. Press summary (to recover data) - implement one GUI report print, audio / video via an interface or other display. All outputs should include:

    a. Name, Other ID, reads the program description.
    b. Design and sample set.
    c. Panels (for screens), maps (for reports).
    d. Messages, example, the general treatment and a specific program,
    Notice Information and error messages.

  3. Information data structures (databases data, files, records and data elements).

    NOTE: Programmers should not be in the business of design
    databases, and to do what is convenient for them
    no other applications, (losing the opportunity for a
    company to share and reuse data). Physical files should be defined by database administrators.

    a. All data structures must include: Name, alternate ID,
    program label, description. Also should include ...
    b. Databases - the organization, key (s), labels, volume / size,
    safeguard requirements, the interior structure.
    c. Archives (both primary and working) - organization, key (s)
    labels, volume / size, backup requirements, internal structure,
    file at relationships.
    d. Records - the shape, length, number (s), contents, certification of registration
    relationships.
    e. The elements data - the type, justification, padding character,
    vacuum state, fashion, photography, label, size, precision, scale,
    rules validation. If the data generated, the rules of calculation.
    If the rules of allocation of data group.

  4. Program Description:

    a. Name, alternate ID, program label, description.
    b. Features: necessary processing speed, memory required.
    c. Dependencies other external programs (eg, batch workflow).
    d. Dependencies internal modules (eg, DLLs, subroutines, etc)
    e. Functions to fill with inputs, outputs, and
    The data structures (creating / updating / reference).
    f. Special handling rules (logic the transformation)
    g. The command language needed to run (program, eg, batch files, JCL, etc)
    h. The physical environment where the program will be executed.
    i. Test Plan and how to collect test data.
    j. Method of execution - Programming language (s)
    be used to meet the technical design, the tools to be
    used.

The software of the rules of the house engineering and the specifications of any program (and should provide guidelines for writing specifications). These rules define "best practices" for design and conventions to be observed in programming. As an aside, the software engineering goal should be: Maintainability (easy to correct and update) performance, design right (the test), international support (to accommodate languages and cultures), systems integration (sharing and reuse of code) and portability (platform independence).

Among the programming specifications as described above and a good set of programming standards, is quite easy to implement any program, either by hand or by a generator. As a matter of policy, the specifications should be written on the assumption a program generator will be used. This forces us to be more precise in our specifications.

Well, how come?

When it comes to setting up a program of specifications, I am of the philosophy that "You eat elephants one spoonful at a time." It is difficult to collect specifications of a single program with a single blow. Moreover, considering the majority of development projects now involve more than one program, the problem is complicated further. For major development efforts, I am of the opinion that the "layers" are the necessary documents. For example, in "PRIDE-ISEM, believe that a system as a set of sub-systems (business processes), implemented by procedures (administrative and IT), administrative procedures comply steps (tasks) and computer procedures consist of programs (which can be divided into modules if desired).

Basically, "Pride" a system of points of view as a product that can be designed and manufactured like any other product. From this perspective, we can use engineering techniques to others as a top-down approach Blueprinting documentation where levels of abstraction to define the different levels of system hierarchy. For example, 1 requirements Phase information in the study of the system and Assessment Manual "specify what system (s) are needed (either new or existing systems requiring modification), Phase 2 "System Design Manual" specifies the subsystems, Phase 3 "Sub-System Design Manual specifies procedures of
in the business process, Phase 4-I "Administrative Procedure Manual" specifies the operational measures and units of 4-Phase II "Team run book" specific programs. Blueprinting This approach allows us to progressively refine our specifications to get to the bottom of the product structure. In other words, not necessary to define all input, output, or data file at once, but rather to first identify the need, then gradually work out the details until we are ready for the program.

This approach to documentation is sometimes called "step wise refinement", in which the design of a structure, as a product or a building, is refined at different levels of abstraction. This is when we made this architecture
Designs can move the product to manufacturing and construction. Imagine trying to build a car or a skyscraper without the technique. It would be virtually impossible. Why be systems different? For this approach
work, you must accept the concepts is a product system, there are different levels of abstraction, and there are standards for documentation each level. This is significantly different from a "form-based approach to development;
For example, filling out forms in a regulated sequence without think towards the design of the system. However, documentation should be a byproduct of the design process.

It also makes a clear distinction in terms of "types" of specifications, for example, "information requirements" and "programming specifications" are miles participation in terms of content and purpose. While the former is a specification for the operational needs of users, is a technical specification
for the programmer to implement.

Blueprinting This approach also stresses the need to work on the core systems of the early stages of design, with programmers are the beneficiaries of more precise specifications (as opposed to vague concepts), and
simplify their work.

CONCLUSION

So what is a good program spec? All that takes the guesswork out of the programmer. Consider this: if the system is working to design front has been done well, the program must be less than 15% of the development process. So why is it that now control 85% of our time together (and money)? Mainly because we changed our objective and we are no longer productive if
programming. After all, programming is perhaps the greatest test visible in our work effort, system design is less tangible.

Let me illustrate, in 1976 I did an entry level COBOL training course from IBM in Cincinnati. Our class was divided into three teams and each team was given problems to solve. When we receive a mission, two other programmers on my team immediately began to write the code,
most of their inputs (Yes, we have used drilling equipment at the time), then compile the program. Inevitably, there were mistakes and go back and correct mistakes until after they finally got it right. As for me, when I had a mission, I would like a plastic model and paper and trace the logic of the program before writing the code. Then enter and compile, and always finish their work before my peers. Curiosity took the best of me and I told them asked, "Why are you doing?" They claimed that as they were called to work by their superiors, not were productive if it were production code. I replied that although they were faster to produce code, still beat every time, simply because I thought the problem through.

The IBM representative enrolled in class I happened to stop and asked me if I find something. I said I was learning more about "programmers" who was in the programming ". I'm still learning about programming, but I have noticed changes Significant in their attitudes
development since then. It is true that we now have powerful tools to accelerate the schedule. , But not if they are so good, why Why reduce our delay? Why are we constantly in maintenance mode? Why we never seem to complete our major applications on time? Why? Because we're not doing the job front.

Just remember, always "Ready, Aim, Fire" - any other sequence is simply counter-productive.

About the author:

Tim Bryce is the Managing Director of M. Bryce & Associates (MBA) Palm Harbor, Fla., a consulting firm specializing in managing information resources management (GIR). Mr. Bryce has over 30 years experience in the field. It is available for training and consulting worldwide. His company website is:
http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/

He can be contacted at: timb001@phmainstreet.com

Copyright © 2006 MBA. All rights reserved.

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Importing XData The XData Import Wizard is the key to viewing your own data on the map, automatically placed. Easily import your own data from ACT!, Goldmine, Excel, text files, or databases. Select different symbols to represent the locations of your information. Or, create your own custom symbols to use on the map; any 24x24-pixel bitmap image can be easily added as a draw symbol using the intuitive XSym module. Street Atlas USA 2008 PLUS best matches your records with a specific address, ZIP code, or latitude/longitude coordinate on the map. NEW tools allow you to symbolize the level of accuracy of your geocoded data. Quickly and easily view the location of each record with a mouse click Add lines, shapes, and text to mark a sales territory or a property boundary Highlight a region to show the untapped market and sales potential Use symbols to mark different accounts or your competition See the city streets and surrounding population centers near your customer locations View concentrations of customers or accounts in specific geographic regions Find new accounts or customers by seeing your business in a new geographic light Map & Travel Information Map Data Because all DeLorme map data is created, updated annually, and owned by DeLorme, we are able to provide many features typically reserved for expensive in-vehicle navigation systems. Free from the license restrictions and third-party dependencies of other publishers, we can also evaluate customer-submitted revisions and implement these changes after triple-checking all submissions. We currently have an enhanced commitment with staff in place to make as many customer revisions as possible. Places of Interest (POI) Data The DeLorme database contains over 4 million annually updated places of interest across the U.S., with additional ones in Canada, including restaurants, lodgings, gas stations, travel services, RV stops, malls, shopping--just about everything you could ever need on the road. The software settings let you choose the magnification level to display the various POIs to avoid cluttering your map views. The POIs can be accessed using the many Find capabilities or by right-clicking on the map and selecting places based on type and distance from map center. GPS Features GPS Radar Search Now you can travel with GPS and have the software find upcoming travel services based on their location from you. Find gas, hotels, shopping, and much more in your direction of travel and then easily make detours to these desired stops along the way. It's like having your personal travel concierge with you at all times. Automatic Back-on-Track GPS Using the Earthmate GPS LT-20, which turns a laptop PC into a powerful GPS navigator, it's possible to have the software offer new spoken and visual directions when you stray off course. Within the GPS tab of the Options section of the E-Z Nav toolbar, you can select or type the off-route distances you want to travel before the automatic recalculations kick in. Select short distances for city travel and longer ones for highway travel where you may exit frequently for roadside travel services. GPS Spoken Directions The software can offer voice directions indicating upcoming turns and street names. It also can be set up to respond to your voice and answer common travel questions--a very powerful capability for mapping software within this price category. Several different voice types are included. Printing & Sharing Print Print crisp color or black & white maps that you control to best match what is seen on screen. Also print Travel Packages containing strip maps and directions to bring on your trip. Don't want to use a lot of ink and paper? Then print just the Turn Details which show thumbnail maps of each of the decision points along your route. MapShare MapShare makes it easy to share your customized maps and directions with family, friends, and business associates. You create exactly the content you want and then post within our online MapShare library, which includes private administrative tools for you to manage. Similar to some of the better online photo resources, MapShare allows you to provide controlled access to your important maps without worrying about email and spam filters. Eartha Community Atlas DeLorme has created several online communities for you to network with other customers looking to share travel information. You connect through the software interface into an online social network where you can add photos and forum postings to specific geographic locations. Demos & Tutorials Getting Started Tutorial This tutorial provides a guided tour of the main capabilities of the software. It is also included within the software along with a comprehensive Help section with links to online discussion groups where DeLorme customers can help you. Data Included Street Atlas USA 2008 PLUS DVD contains the DeLorme produced and managed United States and now also Canadian street-level network, plus highways for Mexico. The included four million U.S. places of interest are updated annually based on phone book information and DeLorme's own research into exit services. Canadian POIs are also included, many with phone numbers. New and Enhanced Features LT-20 GPS Hardware The Earthmate GPS LT-20 is the latest generation of laptop GPS solutions utilizing chipsets from STMicroelectronics and SiGe, as well as firmware and software provided by DeLorme. Unlike previous laptop GPS solutions from DeLorme, this one is easily powered by the USB port of laptop PCs, drawing minimal power in the process. Signal acquisition and retention times are vastly improved compared to previous models. Street Atlas USA 2008 PLUS DVD Extensive street and highway updates for the U.S. and Canada 150 million updated phone listings, all searchable and locatable on the maps, ideal for creating custom databases or for finding friends and services across the U.S. and Canada Improved overall map readability, with more detail now provided at magnification levels 7-10 Ability to delete duplicate records in the phone data when there are multiple phone numbers for the same yellow-page locations National Grid System support High-resolution, recent imagery for many states available for purchase Highway and major road routing now available for Mexico Pinpoint locations, with updated names for 150 pro sports and NASCAR venues 40+ new or updated GPS-accurate chains added to the 4 million places of interest, including Wal-Mart, Chili's, Denny's, Walgreens, Exxon/Mobil, and many more Airport access roads updated Connect online for geographic social networking with other DeLorme customers 900+ malls and access roads updated Truck Stop data with extended information about service offerings Translucent route highlights for seeing map data beneath routes Map transfer to PDAs improved with support for Mexican maps Support for multiple monitors Convenient DVD-ROM edition Navigating on Updated Airport Access Roads Optimizing Delivery Routes Importing Listings Navigating to Properties Business Location Analysis Avoiding Roads for Storm Planning and Response Embedded Diagrams Searching Finding Phone Numbers in Canada along a Block Finding Educational Attractions New High-Resolution Recent Color Imagery Find Places of Interest Finding Nearest Gas Stations College Visit Tour Routing to a Mall Planning a Truck Route Avoid Urban Areas Traveling Through Mexico Visiting a Client in Toronto Calculate Fuel Stops Printing Maps Using Imagery Add Your Own Roads Sharing Maps Online Mobile Device GPS Sky Views Handheld Maps Mobile Device GPS Mobile Device Directions Mobile Device Search Mobile Map Colors Mobile Device GPS Settings

ATN Mars6-WPT Gen WPT, 6X Night Vision Weapon Sight ATN Mars6-WPT Gen WPT, 6X Night Vision Weapon Sight
List Price: $3,999.00
Sale Price: $3,885.05

ATN Mars6x-WPT Night Vision Rifle Scope Gen WPT features white phosphor technology discriminating shades of intensity between white and black resulting in better contrast and depth perception. Studies show that nighttime scenes appear remarkably more natural in black and white versus green. Black and white provides clearer information about contrast, shapes and shadows.

The world's largest line of professional night vision scopes has a new flagship: the MARS6x-WPT. Inspired by ATN's quest for technical perfection and named after the Roman God of War, the MARS6x-WPT riflescope represents the absolute latest in the world of night vision equipment. Similar to the ATN Aries scopes, the MARS scope features only the purest grades of heavy-glass and computer-aided optical designs, creating multi-element, high-speed, multicoated lenses that produce ultra-fast light transmission and resolution beyond current military standards. As a result, you can easily make out minute details of subjects in complete darkness, whether you're targeting a criminal or an elk in the distance. The scope is made using white phosphor technology, which better detects the shades of intensity between white and black, resulting in improved contrast and depth perception. In fact, studies show that nighttime scenes appear remarkably more natural in black and white versus green, because black and white provides clearer information about contrast, shapes, and shadows. Other details include precision windage and elevation adjustments; a tactical digital remote control; a mount for Picatinny or 7/8-inch Weaver-style rail; and a Mil-spec hard case. Waterproof and submersible to 66 feet for 1 hour, the scope carries a two-year warranty. How Night Vision Works All ATN night vision devices consist of several main parts: an objective lens, an eyepiece, a power supply, and an image intensifier tube (photocathode tube). The devices function by gathering existing ambient light, such as starlight, moonlight, or infrared light, through the front lens. This light, which is made up of photons, goes into the photocathode tube and is converted into electrons. Next, the device amplifies the electrons to a much greater number through an electrical and chemical process, and then hurls them against a phosphorous screen that changes them back into visible light. The image will appear through the eyepiece as a clear, black-and-white or green-hued, amplified re-creation of the scene you were observing. All night vision devices need some light to amplify. That's why all ATN night vision devices have a built-in infrared illuminator (IRI). An IRI essentially throws out a beam of infrared light that is near invisible to the naked eye, but your night vision device can see it. This allows you to use your scope even in total darkness. The IRI works like a flashlight, which is why the distance you can see with it is limited. Although ATN IRIs extend out to 100 yards, the IRI may cover only 40 to 60 percent of the viewing area. How Far Can You See? There are many different variables that can affect the distance you see with a night vision device. First, what are you trying to see? Are you looking for another boat on the water or are you looking for a rabbit in the woods? The larger the object, the easier it is to see. Plus, are you trying to see details (commonly called "recognition range"), or are you just trying to see if something is there? Maybe you will see just the movement, but won't be able to determine 100 percent who are what it is. This is called "detection range." Another variable is lighting conditions. The more ambient light you have, the better and further you will be able to see. You can always see further on a night where the moon and stars are out than if it's cloudy and overcast. ATN typically states that you can tell the difference between a male and female or a dog and a deer at about 75 to 100 yards. However, if you were looking across an open field and there was a half moon out, you could see a barn or a house 500 yards away. The scope includes a mount for Picatinny or 7/8-inch Weaver rails. Specifications: Total darkness IR system: Yes SMART technology: No IIT generation: WPT Resolution: 60-74 lp/mm Magnification: 6x Lens system: F2.0, 160mm Proshield lens coating: Yes Field of view: 6 degrees Exit pupil: 7mm Eye relief: 45mm Range of focus: 25m to infinity Diopter adjustment: -5 to +5 Controls: Direct Automatic brightness control: Yes Bright light cutoff: Yes Infrared illuminator: Detachable IR450 IR indicator: Yes Low battery indicator: Yes, in FOV Power supply: One 3-volt CR123A battery or one 1.5-volt AA battery Battery life: 55 hours (3 volts); 40 hours (1.5 volts) Reticle system: Red or amber on green Windage and elevation adjustment: 1/6 MOA Waterproof: Yes Complies with MIL-STD-810: Yes Dimensions: 11.6 by 3.7 by 3.9 inches (W x H x D) Weight: 3.4 pounds Warranty: 2 years

ATN Mars2-WPT Gen WPT, 2X Night Vision Weapon Sight ATN Mars2-WPT Gen WPT, 2X Night Vision Weapon Sight
List Price: $3,499.00
Sale Price: $3,399.00

ATN Mars2x-WPT Night Vision Rifle Scope Gen WPT features white phosphor technology discriminating shades of intensity between white and black resulting in better contrast and depth perception. Studies show that nighttime scenes appear remarkably more natural in black and white versus green. Black and white provides clearer information about contrast, shapes and shadows.

Inspired by ATN's quest for technical perfection and named after the Roman God of War, the MARS2x-WPT riflescope represents the absolute latest in the world of night vision. Similar to the ATN Aries scopes, the MARS scope features only the purest grades of heavy-glass and computer-aided optical designs, creating multi-element, high-speed, multicoated lenses that produce ultra-fast light transmission and resolution beyond current military standards. As a result, you can easily make out minute details of subjects in complete darkness, whether you're targeting a criminal or an elk in the distance. The scope is made using white phosphor technology, which better detects the shades of intensity between white and black, resulting in improved contrast and depth perception. In fact, studies show that nighttime scenes appear remarkably more natural in black and white versus green, because black and white provides clearer information about contrast, shapes, and shadows. Other details include precision windage and elevation adjustments; a tactical digital remote control; a mount for Picatinny or 7/8-inch Weaver-style rail; a nitrogen-purged housing that resists fogging; and a Mil-spec hard case. Waterproof and submersible to 66 feet for 1 hour, the scope carries a two-year warranty. How Night Vision Works All ATN night vision devices consist of several main parts: an objective lens, an eyepiece, a power supply, and an image intensifier tube (photocathode tube). The devices function by gathering existing ambient light, such as starlight, moonlight, or infrared light, through the front lens. This light, which is made up of photons, goes into the photocathode tube and is converted into electrons. Next, the device amplifies the electrons to a much greater number through an electrical and chemical process, and then hurls them against a phosphorous screen that changes them back into visible light. The image will appear through the eyepiece as a clear, black-and-white or green-hued, amplified re-creation of the scene you were observing. All night vision devices need some light to amplify. That's why all ATN night vision devices have a built-in infrared illuminator (IRI). An IRI essentially throws out a beam of infrared light that is near invisible to the naked eye, but your night vision device can see it. This allows you to use your scope even in total darkness. The IRI works like a flashlight, which is why the distance you can see with it is limited. Although ATN IRIs extend out to 100 yards, the IRI may cover only 40 to 60 percent of the viewing area. How Far Can You See? There are many different variables that can affect the distance you see with a night vision device. First, what are you trying to see? Are you looking for another boat on the water or are you looking for a rabbit in the woods? The larger the object, the easier it is to see. Plus, are you trying to see details (commonly called "recognition range"), or are you just trying to see if something is there? Maybe you will see just the movement, but won't be able to determine 100 percent who are what it is. This is called "detection range." Another variable is lighting conditions. The more ambient light you have, the better and further you will be able to see. You can always see further on a night where the moon and stars are out than if it's cloudy and overcast. ATN typically states that you can tell the difference between a male and female or a dog and a deer at about 75 to 100 yards. However, if you were looking across an open field and there was a half moon out, you could see a barn or a house 500 yards away. Specifications: Total darkness IR system: Yes SMART technology: No IIT generation: WPT Resolution: 60-74 lp/mm Magnification: 2.5x Lens system: F1.5, 70mm Proshield lens coating: Yes Field of view: 14 degrees Exit pupil: 7mm Eye relief: 45mm Range of focus: 5m to infinity Diopter adjustment: -5 to +5 Controls: Direct Automatic brightness control: Yes Bright light cutoff: Yes Automatic shutoff system: Yes Infrared illuminator: Detachable IR450 IR indicator: Yes Low battery indicator: Yes, in FOV Power supply: One 3-volt CR123A battery or one 1.5-volt AA battery Battery life: 55 hours (3 volts); 40 hours (1.5 volts) Reticle system: Red or amber on green Windage and elevation adjustment: 1/2.5 MOA Waterproof: Yes Complies with MIL-STD-810: Yes Dimensions: 8.5 by 3.5 by 3.4 inches (W x H x D) Weight: 2.4 pounds Warranty: 2 years

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