4.2 The Elements of Modular Design
4.2.1 Introduction
At this stage, the overall concepts of structured design should be clear (if they aren't, go back and reread earlier sections). We can now put them in the context of specific software design methodologies. But before doing so, the more important elements and building blocks of the design process need to be explained. Some of these we've already met within the framework of general design procedures. Now their functions as software design elements are examined.
4.2.2 Modules and Modularization
It can be seen that a basic feature of "good" design is the partitioning of systems into smaller chunks. The primary reason is to reduce the total problem into one of the manageable proportions (the "head full of information" limit). In software terms, this process is called "modularization, "the elements resulting from this being "modules." It is a basic requirement that modules should...