Especially designed for those with minimal computer experience, this book presents the concepts of program design in a simple, easy-to-understand "building block" format, and applies those design concepts to realistic business programs. Each chapter provides not only a complete explanation of what needs to be done in the design, but why. Uses two standard programs throughout, adding complexity one chapter at a time. Each chapter walks readers through the entire program design process, beginning with the assessment of the program specifications, through the development of the structure chart, and completing the design process with both flowcharts and pseudo code. For anyone wanting an easily-accessible, realistic applications-based introduction to program design.
Fundamentals of Structured Program Design was written with four main objectives in mind:
- To create a book that is easily understood by readers who have little or no programming background.
- To incorporate real-life examples with which students and instructors alike can identify.
- To keep the concepts of program design simple.
- To present a structured approach that, if followed, will improve readers' opportunities for success in school and in new professions.
The book is divided into four main parts: Introduction, Design Principles, Basic Program Design Techniques, and Advanced Program Design. This should help readers understand how the subject matter covered in each chapter relates to other chapters within the section and the topic of program design as a whole.
A completely new Chapter 19, Interactive Programming, has been added to this second edition, as well as a new section on program design in Chapter 8. Several new screen captures and flowcharts illustrate key ideas.
Instructors using the book for a course should obtain the accompanying Instructor's Manual (ISBN 0-13-060230-2).