Object-Oriented Software Engineering

Lucidly describes the fundamental principals of object-oriented analysis, design, and programming. Excellent coverage of object-oriented analysis including the introduction of use cases. Uses an awkward state transition graph that resembles a flow chart in the design methodology. Emphasizes traceability from analysis model to design model to source code. Describes how object-oriented technology impacts specialized topics such as real-time systems, relational databases, testing strategies, component reuse, and product management. The "warehouse management system" case study is more stimulating than the longer "telecom" case study. Compares the OOSE method with other standard object-oriented methods.

This book, unlike others in the field, shows an indepth understanding of the software development process. Jacobson has definitely spent time designing real world apps. His view of OO as a mere component in the development of quality software is visionary and pre-dates the overemphasis and primacy given to it by latter day authors. If you understand the large picture he presents, you will go far in the pragmatic field of designing and deploying real systems.

This book was written in 92 yet continues to be a visionary text. The chapter on Components maps closely to the principles used today in distilling software patterns. The section on testing is key to understanding how to design objects properly (so they can be maintained over time). The appreciation of objects expressed in terms of data (entity) and tasks (operations) is crucial to good analysis and design. What Jacobson conveys is the essence of good software engineering. If you want to understand this book, read it several times as you gain knowledge and experience in the OO arena. Each time you will discover new pearls of wisdom.

One of the best computer related books I have ever read. Comprehensive, well structured and well written.

Jacobson's use case approach has had a profound impact on the field of object oriented analysis and design. Use cases represent a powerful means of capturing system requirements and driving the development of object-oriented software. Jacobson avoids software "dogma" and presents a comprehensive, powerful and practical process for OO software development. If you do any work in OO development, you need this book. <P