CASE Tools PDF
CASE Tools PDF
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"CASE tools do not ensure that anyone can write a good computer system, but they enable
experienced software developers to do an even better job." - Lynne S.
Software design is usually completed with at least some assistance from Computer-Aided Software
Engineering tools, or CASE tools. CASE is basically the use of computer-based support by
developers to develop and maintain software, especially on larger scale, or for more complex
projects. While it may sound perplexing because being a software developer does involve writing
code. But the fact is that systems have become more and more complex. CASE tools enable
software engineers to step back from the actual complexities of code when looking at the larger
picture and design of their larger projects. From the development, system design, coding, through
to the testing and maintenance, these computerized tools can be used throughout the life-cycle of
software to ensure that the finished product is of high quality, with minimal defect, and in the most
time-efficient and cost-effective manner possible. Utilizing CASE tools help make this possible
for software developers.
CASE Classification
Case tools can be classified into Upper CASE tools, and Lower CASE tools.
The upper case tools focus on the beginning stages of system development, such as planning,
objective, and goals. The information necessary is gathered, and through upper CASE tools, is
then presented in an organized way.
Lower CASE tools focus on later parts of system development, such as designing, coding, testing
the software for defects and functionality, implementation and maintaining the software. These
latter stages are often not what we think of when we think of software design, but testing and
maintaining in fact play a huge role in software development.
CASE in Education
Many software engineering jobs will require knowledge of various CASE tools, so familiarity with
what CASE entails and the tools themselves is important if you are pursuing a career in software
engineering. If you are interested in CASE tools, you are probably already studying software
engineering or something related, such as information systems or mathematics. There are some
courses and tutorials at the undergraduate and graduate level that focus specifically on CASE.
Many software engineering programs will at least entail CASE tools in the coursework, which
would grant you a head start toward expertise in using them. Rather than extensive training in
using them, they may give examples, a background, and the benefits of using them. If you are
already a software engineer, consider expanding your knowledge of CASE tools through
continuing education to broaden your job prospects. There are many different types of CASE tools,
all of which can serve different purposes, so it may be a good idea for software engineers to become
familiar with the variety and the benefits of each. Additionally, CASE tools are continually being
developed, becoming more readily available, affordable, and more capable. Continuing education
can help you keep on top of these developments.