Introduction to Software Engineering

Software engineering is an engineering discipline that’s applied to the development of software in a systematic approach (called a software process). 

It’s the application of theories, methods, and tools to design and build software that meets the specifications efficiently, cost-effectively, and ensures quality.

 

Ultimate Goal:

The goal of Software Engineering is to provide models and processes that lead to the production of well-documented maintainable software in a manner that is predictable.

Similarity and Differences

(Conventional Engineering and Software Engineering)

 

Similarities:

• Both are getting automated slowly.
• Both require in-depth knowledge of their field.
• Both have fixed work timings most of the time unlike doctors.
• Both are trying to make the world a better place.
• It would be design, manufacturing, production and plan.

 

Differences:

Software Engineering	Conventional Engineering
One moves from abstract design to abstract code.	One moves from abstract design to concrete product
It is mainly related with computers, programming and writing codes for building applications	It is about building cars, machines, hardware, buildings etc.
Emphasizes on quality, domain specific people, process identification.	Emphasizes on mass production, domain specific component identification.
Product standardization here is remote.	Product standardization helps reduce cost here.
Software Engineering Process is a process which majorly involves computer science, information technology and discrete mathematics.	Conventional Engineering Process is a process which majorly involves science, mathematics and empirical knowledge.