SOFTWARE TOOLS AUTOMATE STRUCTURED ANALYSIS

Structured analysis leads to improved communication among design team members by providing a standard notation to express ideas. This is especially important because it is used in the early phases of a project, when the system is least understood. It makes it easier for software engineers to communicate their thoughts and get early feedback. Software engineers can exchange views and ideas using structured-analysis drawings, much as electrical engineers might use circuit schematics. Furthermore, concise and complete drawings provided by the method can also help protect a project from the problems of personnel turnover. Another beneficial side effect of structured analysis is that the project manager has better information on which to base decisions. Structured analysis gives the manager a firmer, more precise basis for costing the project, establishing schedules, and evaluating progress.