Software engineering lecture NO 5 by shais

Editor's Notes

• #14: Bill Curtis and Diane Walz's Layered Behavioral Model in simple words, with examples for each layer. This model shows that software development isn't just about writing code—it's influenced by many human and organizational factors, from the developer to the entire business environment. 1. Individual Layer – The Developer Focus: The personal skills, mindset, and motivation of each developer. In simple words: This is about the developer themselves—their knowledge, how they think, solve problems, and how motivated they are. Example: Imagine Sarah, a programmer. She understands the task well and knows how to solve it using her coding skills. But if she’s not motivated or is tired, she might not do her best work. Her personal effort and skills directly affect the quality of the software. 2. Team Layer – The Group of Developers Focus: How developers work together as a team. In simple words: Even if every developer is talented, the project won’t succeed unless they communicate well, share tasks properly, and support each other. Example: Sarah is working with 3 other developers. If they don’t talk regularly, don’t understand each other’s work, or argue too much, their software might have bugs or delays—even though all of them are good individually. 3. Project Layer – Management and Planning Focus: How the project is organized and led. In simple words: This is about planning, deadlines, leadership, and solving team issues. A good project manager helps everyone stay on track and work smoothly. Example: The manager sets a clear schedule, assigns tasks properly, and resolves conflicts between team members. If the project is mismanaged—like unclear goals or unrealistic deadlines—even a good team can struggle. 4. Organizational Layer – The Company’s Role Focus: The company’s policies, culture, and resources. In simple words: This is about the company's rules, work environment, tools, training, and overall support for software development. Example: If Sarah’s company doesn’t give her a powerful computer, proper training, or if they punish mistakes harshly, she might feel frustrated or stuck. On the other hand, a supportive environment boosts her productivity. 5. Business Milieu (Environment) – The Outside World Focus: External pressures like the market, laws, and customers. In simple words: This is about outside forces that affect the company, like competitors, government rules, the economy, and customer needs. Example: If a competitor launches a new app, Sarah’s company might rush to release their version. Or if new privacy laws are passed, the software must be updated to stay legal. Summary Example: Let’s say a team is building a mobile app. At the individual layer, each developer must be skilled and motivated. At the team layer, they must communicate and coordinate well. At the project layer, the manager must plan the tasks and timelines. At the organizational layer, the company must provide resources and a good work culture. At the business milieu, the company must respond to competitors, laws, and customer expectations.