Systems Architecture and Engineering

Course Philosophy Don’t accept definitions and ideas without questioning. Learn to comment and analyze ideas. Use the things that work for you. Don’t ignore the rest! It too may be useful.

Things about Architecture Relatively new subject! (Mid 90’s) Will it last? Case Tools Top down design Chief programmer team Software design remains a wicked problem!

Defining Systems Architecture Lack of a universally accepted definition Not to worry: Humans don’t require a formal definition Find a definition that works for you

Tools Software development tools: Architects need tools also! See the Vasa pg 4 & 5

Architecture Business Cycle A Tool Understanding Analysis A model

Architecture Production A Simple Model Specifications Architecture Business Decisions

A dose of reality Stakeholders Developing Organization Architect Technical Environment

ABC Stakeholders Specs Developing Organization Architecture Technical Environment System Architects Experience

ABC – the cycle Stakeholders Specs Developing Organization Technical Environment Architects Experience Specs Architecture System

Activities in ABC Business Case Understanding Requirements Create or Select Architecture Communicating Architecture Analyze or Evaluate Architecture Implement Ensure Conformance

Properties of a Good Architecture