Software Engineering Fundamentals & Process Models

This unit covers the foundational concepts of Software Engineering, starting with the definition and characteristics of software (intangible, non-wearable, engineered, custom-built, upgradable, complex) and the software failure curve. It explains the different types/categories of software including system, application, embedded, real-time, web-based, and AI software. The notes then dive into Software Engineering as a layered technology, breaking down the four layers: Quality Focus, Process, Methods, and Tools, along with the Software Process Framework and its five framework activities (Communication, Planning, Modeling, Construction, Deployment) plus umbrella activities. The bulk of the unit explores major Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) process models with diagrams: the Waterfall Model, Incremental Model, RAD (Rapid Application Development) Model, Spiral Model, and Prototyping Model. It also covers Agile methodologies in depth, including Agile Model basics, Extreme Programming (XP), Adaptive Software Development (ASD), Scrum, and Dynamic System Development Method (DSDM) — each explained with phases, advantages, disadvantages, and use cases, making this a complete reference for SDLC model comparisons.