Structured Analysis and Object-Oriented Analysis

Introduction

In software engineering, before designing or coding a system, it is necessary to properly analyze the problem and understand user requirements. Software analysis is the process of studying what the system should do and how it should behave.

Two important approaches used for software requirement analysis are:

• Structured Analysis

• Object-Oriented Analysis (OOA)

Both methods help in developing clear system models, improving understanding, and reducing errors during software development.

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1. Structured Analysis

Meaning

Structured Analysis is a traditional method of software analysis that focuses on functions and processes of the system. It breaks down a complex system into smaller functional components in a step-by-step manner.

This approach answers the question:
➡️ What functions does the system perform?

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Key Features of Structured Analysis

• Focuses on processes and data flow

• Uses a top-down approach

• System is viewed as a set of functions

• Suitable for procedural programming systems

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Tools Used in Structured Analysis

Structured analysis uses graphical tools such as:

• Data Flow Diagrams (DFD)
  Shows how data moves through the system.

• Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERD)
  Represents data relationships.

• Decision Tables and Decision Trees
  Used for complex logical conditions.

• Process Specifications

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Advantages of Structured Analysis

• Simple and easy to understand

• Works well for small and medium projects

• Clear representation of data flow

• Improves requirement clarity

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Limitations of Structured Analysis

• Not suitable for large complex systems

• Difficult to manage changes

• Focuses more on functions than real-world entities

• Less reusable compared to OOA

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2. Object-Oriented Analysis (OOA)

Meaning

Object-Oriented Analysis is a modern approach that focuses on objects, which represent real-world entities. It identifies the objects in the system, their attributes, behaviors, and relationships.

This approach answers the question:
➡️ What objects exist in the system and how do they interact?

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Key Features of Object-Oriented Analysis

• Focuses on objects and classes

• Uses bottom-up approach

• Models real-world entities

• Supports reuse and scalability

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Tools Used in Object-Oriented Analysis

OOA commonly uses UML (Unified Modeling Language) diagrams such as:

• Use Case Diagram
  Shows user interactions with the system.

• Class Diagram
  Represents classes and relationships.

• Sequence Diagram
  Shows object interactions over time.

• Activity Diagram
  Represents workflow of activities.

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Advantages of Object-Oriented Analysis

• Better suited for complex systems

• Supports reusability through classes and objects

• Easy to maintain and modify

• Real-world representation improves understanding

• Compatible with modern programming languages like Java, C++, Python

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Limitations of Object-Oriented Analysis

• More complex than structured analysis

• Requires expertise in OOP concepts

• May not be ideal for very small projects

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Conclusion

Structured Analysis and Object-Oriented Analysis are two major techniques used in software requirement analysis. Structured analysis focuses on functional decomposition and data flow, making it suitable for traditional systems. Object-oriented analysis focuses on objects and real-world modeling, making it ideal for modern, scalable, and reusable software systems. Understanding both approaches helps software engineers choose the best method depending on the project requirements.