SRS DOCUMENT FOR SORTING ALGORITHM VISUALIZER

1.INTRODUCTION

A sorting algorithm visualizer is an interactive tool designed to help users understand how different
sorting algorithms work. By visually representing the steps each algorithm takes to sort a list of items,
these tools make it easier to grasp the underlying principles and mechanics of sorting processes.
Whether you're a computer science student, a developer, or simply someone interested in algorithms, a
sorting algorithm visualizer can be a valuable resource for learning and teaching.

1.1 PURPOSES

The purpose of this project is to address the challenge beginners face in understanding sorting
algorithms, fundamental to computer science. We developed a web-based application enabling users to
visualize various sorting algorithms on random arrays. Using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, the application
offers a userfriendly interface allowing algorithm and array size selection,
displaying algorithmic steps through animations. The project aims to enhance users' comprehension of
sorting logic while showcasing the educational potential of web development technologies. Future
extensions may include additional algorithms, features, and
documentation to enrich the learning experience.

1.2 DOCUMENT CONVENTION

IEEE standards are followed

1.3 INTENDED AUDIENCE AND READING SUGGESTIONS

The intended audience for this project includes beginners in computer science or programming seeking
to understand sorting algorithms, as well as educators looking for interactive teaching resources.
Reading suggestions for this audience include introductory textbooks on algorithms, online tutorials
covering HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and resources focused on sorting algorithms and educational
applications.

1.4 SCOPE

1. Development of a web-based application targeting users, especially beginners, to aid in

understanding various sorting algorithms.
2. Utilization of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create an interactive platform for visualizing sorting
processes.
3. Implementation of a user-friendly interface allowing users to select sorting algorithms and array
sizes.
4. Displaying sorting algorithm steps on randomly generated arrays using animations and color-coded
representations.
5. Focus on enhancing users' comprehension of sorting algorithm logic and efficiency.
6. Demonstration of the practical application of web development technologies for educational
purposes.
7. Potential for future expansion through the addition of more sorting algorithms, features enhancing
user experience, and comprehensive documentation to support application usage and development.

1.5 REFERENCES

 Books
 Websites

2. REQUIREMENTS

2.1 REQUIREMENT SPECIFICATION

This proposed software runs effectively on a computing system that has the
minimum requirements. Undertaking all the equipment necessities are not satisfied
but rather exist in their systems administration between the user’s machines already.
So, the main need is to introduce appropriate equipment for the product. The
requirements are split into two categories, namely:
System Specification

2.2 SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS

The basic software requirements to run the program are:

1. Windows 10
2. Visual Studio Code
3. HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap
4. Browser example Mozilla Firefox, Safari, chrome, etc.

2.3 HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS

The basic hardware required to run the program are:

1. Hard disk of 5 GB
2. System memory (RAM) of 512 MB
3. I3 processor-based computer or higher
2.4 External Interface Requirements

The Sorting Algorithm Visualizer interacts with users through its graphical user interface (GUI) and may
also depend on external resources or services to function properly. Here are the key external interface
requirements of the visualizer:

2.4.1 User Interface (GUI)

Buttons and Controls:

 The visualizer provides buttons for generating arrays, selecting sorting algorithms, and controlling
the visualization process.
 Users interact with these buttons to initiate actions such as generating new arrays or starting
sorting animations.

Array Visualization:

 The visualizer displays the array elements as vertical bars within a container.
 Each bar represents an array element, with its height corresponding to the value of the element.

2.4.2 Input/Output (I/O)

User Input:

 Users provide input by clicking on buttons or controls within the GUI.

 Input actions include generating new arrays, selecting sorting algorithms, and controlling the
visualization speed.

Output Display:

 The visualizer outputs the sorted array as a series of animated bars moving and rearranging to
demonstrate the sorting process.
 Users observe the visual changes to understand how the sorting algorithm operates.

2.4.3 Dependencies
Web Browser:

 The visualizer runs within a web browser environment and relies on browser capabilities to
render the GUI and execute JavaScript code.
 Compatibility with modern web browsers is essential for proper functioning.

Internet Connection:

 The visualizer may load external resources such as CSS stylesheets or JavaScript libraries from
remote servers.
 An active internet connection is required to access these resources and ensure the visualizer
functions as intended.

2.4.4 Accessibility

Keyboard and Touch Input:

 The visualizer should support keyboard and touch input for users who prefer alternative input
methods or have accessibility needs.
 Users should be able to navigate and interact with the GUI using keyboard shortcuts or touch
gestures.

Screen Reader Compatibility:

 Ensure the visualizer's GUI is compatible with screen readers and assistive technologies, making
it accessible to users with visual impairments.

2.4.5 Performance

System Resources:

 The visualizer should be optimized to minimize CPU and memory usage, particularly during
animations and sorting operations.
 Efficient algorithms and code optimizations help ensure smooth performance, even with large
arrays.

2.4.6 Security
Data Privacy:

 The visualizer should not collect or store any user data beyond what is necessary for its
operation.
 Ensure that user interactions and data remain private and secure during usage.

2.5 OTHER REQUIREMENTS

 User Engagement Features: Implement features such as progress tracking, badges, or

leaderboards to encourage user engagement and motivate learners to explore different sorting
algorithms.

 Cross-Platform Compatibility: Ensure compatibility across various operating systems (e.g.,

Windows, macOS, Linux) to reach a wider audience and provide a consistent user experience
regardless of the user's device.

 Offline Accessibility: Provide offline functionality or downloadable resources for users to access
the application and educational materials without an internet connection, enhancing accessibility
and usability in offline environments.

 Performance Metrics: Integrate performance metrics and analytics tools to track user
interactions, identify popular sorting algorithms, and gather insights for optimizing the
application's functionality and user experience.

 Gamification Elements: Incorporate gamification elements such as challenges, rewards, or

simulations to make learning sorting algorithms more engaging and interactive, fostering a sense
of achievement and progress among users.

 Community Collaboration: Facilitate community collaboration by allowing users to share their

sorting algorithm visualizations, contribute educational content, or participate in forums and
discussions to foster a collaborative learning environment.
 Adaptability to Learning Styles: Design the application to accommodate different learning styles
(e.g., visual, auditory, kinesthetic) by providing alternative modes of instruction, such as audio
descriptions or interactive exercises, to cater to diverse user preferences and needs.

3. OVERALL DESCRIPTION
3.1 PRODUCTION PERSPECTIVE

FRONT-END PERSPECTIVE

 User Interface Design: The front-end development focuses on designing an intuitive and user
friendly interface for the sorting algorithm visualization application.

 Interactive Features: Implementation of interactive elements such as dropdown menus and

buttons allows users to select sorting algorithms and adjust array sizes effortlessly.

 Visual Representation: Utilization of animations and color-coded displays effectively

communicates the sorting algorithm steps, enhancing user comprehension.

 Responsive Design: Ensuring compatibility across various devices and screen sizes enables users
to access the application seamlessly from desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

 Accessibility Considerations: Incorporating accessibility features such as keyboard navigation and

screen reader compatibility enhances usability for users with disabilities.

DEPLOYMENT AND MAINTENANCE

 Hosting Infrastructure: Selecting an appropriate hosting platform and setting up deployment

pipelines facilitate the deployment process and ensure the application is accessible online.

 Version Control: Utilizing version control systems like Git enables collaborative development and
facilitates tracking of changes over time.

 Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD): Implementing CI/CD pipelines

automates the testing and deployment processes, ensuring smooth and efficient updates to the
application.

 Monitoring and Performance Optimization: Regular monitoring of application performance helps

identify and address issues promptly, ensuring optimal user experience.

 Maintenance and Updates: Regular maintenance tasks such as bug fixes, security patches, and
feature enhancements ensure the application remains functional, secure, and up-to-date with
 evolving technologies and user requirements.
3.2 Operating Environment

Operating Systems : Windows, Linux, MacOS.

Web Browsers : Google Chrome, IE8, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft

3.3 Design and Implementation Constraints

The web application will be constrained by the capacity of the DB. The DB may in some cases be
forced to queue incoming requests and therefore increase the time it takes to fetch dat

3.4 User Documentation

The Sorting Algorithm Visualizer offers a dynamic and interactive way to explore sorting algorithms and
deepen your understanding of their principles. Whether you're a student, educator, or developer, this
tool can enhance your learning and teaching experience. Start visualizing sorting algorithms now and
unlock new insights into their functionality.

3.5 Assumptions and Dependencies

Before using the Sorting Algorithm Visualizer, it's important to be aware of certain assumptions and
dependencies that may affect its functionality and usage. Here are some key points to consider:

3.5.1 Web Browser Compatibility:

 The visualizer is designed to work on modern web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla
Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
 Ensure that your browser is up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.

3.5.2 Internet Connection:

 The Sorting Algorithm Visualizer is a web-based tool and requires an active internet connection
to access and use.
 Ensure a stable internet connection for optimal performance.

3.5.3 JavaScript Enabled:

 JavaScript must be enabled in your browser settings to run the visualizer.

 Check your browser settings to ensure JavaScript is enabled.

3.5.4Screen Size and Resolution:

  The visualizer is optimized for various screen sizes and resolutions, including desktops, laptops,
tablets, and mobile devices.
 However, larger screens may provide a better viewing experience.

3.5.5 Device Input:

 The visualizer supports both mouse and touch input for interacting with controls and elements.
 Ensure that your device's input method is functioning properly.

3.5.6 Resource Requirements:

 The visualizer may consume system resources, particularly during animations and sorting
processes.
 Ensure that your device has sufficient memory and processing power to run the visualizer
smoothly, especially for larger arrays.

3.5.7 External Libraries and APIs:

 The visualizer may depend on external libraries or APIs for certain functionalities, such as CSS
frameworks or JavaScript libraries.
 Ensure that these dependencies are properly loaded and accessible for the visualizer to function
correctly.

3.5.8 Security Considerations:

 Exercise caution when using the visualizer on shared or public devices, especially if it involves
inputting sensitive data.
 Avoid running the visualizer on untrusted or compromised websites to prevent potential security
risks.

4. SYSTEM FEATURES

4.1 FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

4.1.1 Array Generation:

 The system shall allow users to generate arrays of random integers.

 Users shall be able to specify the size of the array to generate.

4.1.2 Sorting Algorithms:

  The system shall support the visualization of multiple sorting algorithms, including Bubble Sort,
Insertion Sort, and Selection Sort.
 Users shall be able to select which sorting algorithm to visualize.

4.1.3 User Controls:

 The system shall provide buttons for users to interact with, including buttons for generating
arrays and selecting sorting algorithms.
 Users shall have the option to control the speed of the sorting animation.

4.1.4 Visual Representation:

 The system shall display the array elements as vertical bars within a container.
 Each bar shall represent an array element, with its height corresponding to the value of the
element.

4.1.5 Interactivity:

 The system shall have a responsive interface that adapts to different screen sizes and devices.
 Users shall be able to interact with the visualizer using both mouse and touch input.

4.1.6 Educational Resources:

 The system shall provide brief explanations of each sorting algorithm to aid user understanding.
 Users shall have access to links to additional educational resources for further learning.

4.2 Other FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

 Algorithm Visualization: The application must accurately visualize the step-by-step execution of
various sorting algorithms on randomly generated arrays.

 User Interface: Implement a user-friendly interface allowing users to select sorting algorithms
and adjust array sizes seamlessly.

 Sorting Algorithm Selection: Provide a dropdown menu or similar mechanism for users to choose
from a range of sorting algorithms, including but not limited to selection sort, insertion
 sort, and merge sort.

 Array Size Adjustment: Allow users to specify the size of the array to be sorted, catering to
different data set sizes for experimentation and learning purposes.
  Interactive Controls: Implement controls such as play, pause, and reset to allow users to control
the sorting visualization playback.

 Color-coded Display: Display the sorting algorithm steps on the array using appropriate colors to
distinguish between sorted and unsorted elements, aiding user comprehension.

 Compatibility and Responsiveness: Ensure the application functions properly and is responsive
across various web browsers and devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

4.3 NON FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

4.3.1 Performance:

 The system shall execute sorting algorithms efficiently for arrays of various sizes.
 Sorting animations shall be smooth and responsive, with minimal lag.

4.3.2 Usability:

 The system shall have an intuitive user interface that is easy to navigate.
 The visualizer shall be accessible to users with disabilities, following accessibility guidelines.

4.3.3 Reliability:

 The system shall operate reliably without crashing or experiencing unexpected errors.
 Error handling shall be implemented to provide informative error messages to users.

4.3.4 Compatibility:

 The system shall be compatible with major web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and
Edge.
 The visualizer shall be compatible with various devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and
mobile phones.

4.3.5 Security:

 The system shall handle user data securely, following best practices for data protection and
privacy.
 Communication with external resources shall be encrypted to protect against data interception
and tampering.

4.3.6 User Feedback

  Feedback Mechanism: The visualizer may include mechanisms for users to provide feedback or
report issues, facilitating continuous improvement.
 User Satisfaction: Regular assessment of user satisfaction through surveys or feedback channels
to identify areas for enhancement.
4.4 Other NON FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

 Performance: The application must provide smooth and responsive visualization, even for large
data sets, to ensure an optimal user experience.

 Security: Implement appropriate security measures to protect user data and ensure the
application is resistant to common web vulnerabilities such as cross-site scripting (XSS) and SQL
 injection.

 Accessibility: Ensure the application is accessible to users with disabilities by adhering to web
accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).

 Scalability: Design the application to handle an increasing number of users and sorting algorithm
options efficiently, allowing for future scalability as the user base grows.

 Documentation: Provide comprehensive documentation including user manuals, developer

guides, and technical specifications to facilitate usage, maintenance, and further development of
the application.

 Usability: Conduct usability testing to ensure the application is intuitive and easy to navigate,
catering to users of varying levels of technical proficiency.

 Maintainability: Develop the application using clean, modular code and adhere to best practices
to facilitate ease of maintenance and future updates.