Programming+Life+Cycle

=__ Programming Life Cycle __= The Programmnig Life Cycle consists of 5 equally important steps that programmers world-wide follow in a cyle to get smooth-running programs. =toc= =__ Steps __= 1. Analysis of User Requirements 2. Design the Program 3. Code the Program 4. Document and Test the System 5. Operate and Maintain the System

__ Step 1: Analysis of User Requirements __
In this stage, **identify the problem**. Make sure it is clear and understood exactly what inputs into the system and what the output should be from the program.

__ Step 2: Design the Program __
In this stage, **design a solution to the identified problem**. This solution should be formatted as a list of sequencial steps. This list can also be referred to as //algorithm//. This algorithm is an easy way for programmers to break down big tasks when programming and problem solving.

__ Step 3: Code the Program __
This stage can also be referred to as the //implement stage//. In this stage, the **algorithms are translated into programming code**. It can take a very long time for a programmer to complete this step in the programming life cycle.

__ Step 4: Document and Test __
In this stage, **comments are used and testing is done**. Comments help the programmer understand what the code is telling the program to do. It is easier to pick out problems when comments are organized and easy to read and understand. Then, test the program multiple times and look for "bugs." ("Bugs" are the same thing as errors.) "Debug" (fix the errors in) the program after testing it. Do the "debugging" rigorously to make sure the program runs smoothly and it functions as expected.

__ Step 5: Operating and Maintaining __
After the program is fully "debugged," user training should commence. Then it is neccesary to **continue monitoring and operating** it to make sure it continues to run smoothly. **Maintaining** will have to be done, too. As the system gets older and has a larger number of users, it may be necessary to upgrade and update it. Technology is constantly changing, so adapt as best as possible. (If not possible, try from Step 1 and the cycle will start again.)

__ Video __
media type="custom" key="4414855" align="center"

__ Quiz __
@http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dDVqWDBfay1iaWMycVBRbzI3alVoOWc6MA..

__ Bibliography __
-@http://www.startvbdotnet.com/sdlc/sdlc.aspx -@http://www.samsvb.co.uk/index.php?page=lesson&les=Lesson%2014 -@http://www.slide.com/