Cork Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Development - Stage 3
(NFQ - Level 8)
Spring 2006
Software Engineering I
(Time: 3 Hours)
Instructions
Answer any FIVE questions.
Examiners: Mr. J. O Brien
Dr. M. O Cinneide
Q1. (a) What is software engineering? [3 Marks]
(b)
Software doesn't "wear out". Discuss, briefly. [5 Marks]
(c)
The adequate engineering of a software entity requires that a software development
process be defined. Describe, briefly, each of the following generic characteristics of
a software development process:
i. Definition phase.
ii. Development phase.
iii. Support/maintenance phase. [12 Marks]
Q2. (a) Effective management is concerned with managing the people in an organisation.
Project managers have to solve technical and non-technical problems by using the
personnel in their team(s), in the most effective way possible.
Write a brief note on each of the following critical factors in people management:
i. Consistency.
ii. Respect.
iii. Inclusion.
iv. Honesty. [4 Marks]
(b)
Software development, generally, is a team/group-based activity. Therefore, putting
together a group that works effectively is a critical management task. A development
group that contains complementary personalities may work better than a group
selected solely on technical ability. Discuss. [8 Marks]
(c)
Good communication between members of a software development group is essential.
Group members must exchange information on the status of their work, the design
decisions that have been made, and changes to previous decisions that are necessary.
Write a note on each of the following factors that influences the effectiveness of
communication:
i. Group size.
ii. Group structure.
iii. Group composition.
iv. Physical work environment. [8 Marks]
Q3. (a) Estimating the cost of a software development project is largely an unexplored field,
