Question

When designing an object-oriented application, who should write a description of the problem domain?

Short answer

Answer: The System Architect should write a description of the problem domain when designing an object-oriented application, as they possess a deep understanding of the application's structure and requirements and can accurately translate the problem into the object-oriented paradigm. However, collaboration and input from other team members, such as Project Managers and Developers, can also help ensure the description is accurate and comprehensive.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Object-Oriented Application Design

In an object-oriented application, the software is developed using a series of objects that interact with each other. These objects represent entities in the problem domain. Writing a description of the problem domain helps programmers better understand the problem at hand and create a more efficient and reliable solution. The problem domain description defines the scope, requirements, and interactions of the application.

Identifying Key Roles in Application Design Process

There are several key roles in designing and developing an object-oriented application. These roles include: 1. Project Manager: Responsible for overseeing and coordinating the entire project, setting goals and deadlines, and ensuring smooth communication among team members. 2. System Architect: Responsible for designing the overall structure of the application, including determining the main components, their relationships, and any external systems that must be interacted with. 3. Developers/Programmers: Responsible for creating the actual code that implements the objects, methods, and interactions defined in the system architecture. 4. Testers: Responsible for testing the application to identify any errors or issues that may arise during execution. 5. Documentation Specialist: Responsible for preparing documentation related to the application, such as user guides, manuals, and technical documentation.

Determining Who Should Write the Problem Domain Description

The person responsible for writing a description of the problem domain should ideally have a strong understanding of the application's goals, requirements, and constraints. This person should also be knowledgeable about the objects and relationships that will be needed to solve the problem. Considering the roles outlined in Step 2, the ideal candidate to write a description of the problem domain would be the System Architect. This is because they possess a deep understanding of the application's structure and requirements and can accurately translate the problem into the object-oriented paradigm. However, input from the Project Manager and Developers can also be valuable in ensuring that the description is comprehensive and accurately addresses the problem. In smaller teams, the roles of System Architect, Project Manager, and Developers may be combined, requiring collaboration among team members to create and refine the problem domain description.

Conclusion

When designing an object-oriented application, the person responsible for writing a description of the problem domain should be the System Architect, as they possess the necessary skills and understanding of the application's requirements. However, collaboration and input from other team members, such as Project Managers and Developers, can also help ensure the description is accurate and comprehensive.