Reviews for Software Development with UML

1. A practical, readable and intelligent introduction

   Rated 4 out of 5 stars, June 12th, 2003

   Being a third (of 4) year undergraduate in business computing, this is the book that I wish I had had two years earlier. Whilst this is not as in depth as some texts on the subject material, I believe it to be pitched at the right level for its purpose - that of being an introductory text. It is readable and direct, thought provoking without being indulgent and full of useful real life advice.

   An introduction to O-O development using UML can be tricky. Too much in depth information can cloud the view when trying to grasp the concepts. Ken Lunn's book addresses this problem well -no doubt backed up by his teaching experience - by delivering a straight forward view of the fundamental concepts of UML and its application in O-O software development.

   Although I am familiar with most of the concepts introduced, the practical advice offered introduced me to new ideas and new ways of doing things. I was particularly impressed with the emphasis on business process modelling since this is often given little regard in favour of diving straight into the "system modelling".

   Another impressive feature of the book are the three case studies. Developed throughout the book, they provide a useful set of views of different types of system and the need for thinking differently to address different types of development. Two further, related case studies provide a method of adding practice to the theory contained within the text. As any practitioner of UML knows learning the theory is only the first part of becoming familiar and adept with the notation, practice can provide the real learning. A welcome change to the "University registration" and "Library" reference systems often found in introductory texts.

   Each phase of the software development process is taken into account, the breadth of this is quite commendable however some of the material in the later sections of the book is, perhaps, a little too minimal.

   Altogether a fantastic primer for students and professionals alike that benefits from the authors experience both in teaching and as a consultant within the profession.