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The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)

52 flashcards (Year 12). Study these as flip cards Random

Identifying and defining

Requirements Term

What the solution must do (functionality) and how well (performance), found by analysing the problem.

Example: 'The app must show results within 2 seconds.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: 2022 Software Design and Development HSC Q25 (11 marks): Development approach, implementation, testing, quality of experience

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Need or opportunity Term

The reason for the project: a problem to fix or a chance to improve something.

Example: 'Manual marking takes too long.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Feasibility Term

Whether the project can realistically be done: scheduling (time) and financial (cost) feasibility.

Example: 'Can it be finished by term 4 within budget?'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Functionality and performance requirements Term

Functionality is what the software does; performance is how fast, how reliable, how much load.

Example: 'Functional: calculate tax. Performance: respond within 1 second.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Boundaries Term

What is included in the solution and what is not (its scope).

Example: 'The system covers booking, not payment.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Data structures and data types (defining) Term

Deciding which structures (array, record, list) and types (integer, string, Boolean) the solution will use.

Example: 'Store each student as a record.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Brainstorming, mind-mapping and storyboards Term

Idea tools: brainstorming lists ideas freely, a mind map shows how ideas connect, a storyboard shows the screens or steps in order.

Example: 'A storyboard of three app screens.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Draw a storyboard
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Data dictionary Term

A table listing each data item with its name, data type, size or format, description and validation rules.

Example: 'Age | Integer | 0-120.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Complete a data dictionary
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Code generation Term

Writing the code from the design, using appropriate language structures.

Example: 'Convert pseudocode to Python.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Installation Term

Putting the finished software into use in the client environment.

Example: 'Install on all school computers.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Maintenance Term

Updating the software after release to fix errors, add features or adapt to change.

Example: 'Release a patch for a security bug.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem

Implementation methods

Direct implementation Term

The old system stops and the new one starts straight away; cheap and fast but risky.

Example: 'Switch off the old system on Friday and use the new one Monday.'

Where you would use it in the test

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods

Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods

Phased implementation Term

The new system is introduced in stages (one module or area at a time).

Example: 'Roll out the new timetable first, then attendance.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods

Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods

Parallel implementation Term

The old and new systems run side by side until the new one is trusted; safe but costly.

Example: 'Run both payroll systems for a month.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods

Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods

Pilot implementation Term

The new system is trialled by a small group or one location first, then rolled out to everyone.

Example: 'One branch tries the new system first.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: 2025 Q1: pilot
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods

Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods

Development approaches

Waterfall approach Term

A linear approach where each stage (requirements, design, development, testing, installation, maintenance) is finished before the next starts, like falling water. Advantages: clear structure and documentation. Disadvantages: hard to change, late testing. Suits large, well-defined projects.

Example: 'Fixed requirements and a big government system suit Waterfall.'

Where you would use it in the test

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q2 (1 mark): Software development approaches

Memorise: Waterfall

Agile approach Term

An iterative approach that builds the software in short cycles (sprints), delivering working versions often and adapting to feedback; method tailoring is allowed. Suits changing requirements and small to medium projects.

Example: 'Release a working feature every two weeks.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: 2025 Q2 dropdown
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q2 (1 mark): Software development approaches

Memorise: Waterfall

WAgile Term

A hybrid of Waterfall and Agile: for example, Waterfall planning and Agile development. The analysis considers when and how intervention is applied across the life cycle.

Example: 'Fixed budget and scope from Waterfall, Agile sprints for building.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q2 (1 mark): Software development approaches

Memorise: Waterfall

Iteration workflow Term

The repeated cycle of plan, build, test and review in Agile; each iteration improves the product.

Example: 'Each sprint ends with a demo and feedback.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q2 (1 mark): Software development approaches

Memorise: Waterfall

Planning and managing

Project management Term

Planning, scheduling, tracking and controlling the work, time, people and resources to deliver the project.

Example: 'Use a tool to track tasks and deadlines.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Gantt chart Diagram

A bar chart showing tasks against time, with start and end dates, duration and dependencies; used to schedule and track a project.

Example: 'Testing cannot start until coding finishes.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Draw or read a Gantt chart
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Collaboration tools Term

Tools that help teams work together, such as messaging, shared documents, task boards and version control.

Example: 'A shared task board tracks who does what.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q4 (1 mark): Collaboration

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Social and ethical issues in project work Term

Issues from working individually, collaboratively and responding to stakeholders: fair workload, respecting people's views, honesty and credit.

Example: 'Give credit for each member's code.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Communication issues Term

Involving and empowering the client, enabling feedback and negotiating.

Example: 'Show the client a prototype for feedback.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Quality assurance (QA) Term

Defining quality criteria, checking continually that requirements are met, and addressing compliance and legislative requirements.

Example: 'Define criteria such as speed and accuracy.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: 2023 Software Design and Development HSC Q26 (9 marks): Code reading, maintainability and testing

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Modelling tools Term

Diagrams that show structure, data or behaviour of a solution: DFDs, structure charts, class diagrams, ERDs, decision trees, storyboards and flowcharts.

Example: 'A DFD models the flow of data.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Back-end engineering contribution Term

Back-end engineering helps success and ease of development through the technology used, error handling, interfacing with the front end and security engineering.

Example: 'A well-defined API makes front-end work easier.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Explain the contribution of back-end engineering
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q23b (3 marks): Server-side web programming

Memorise: Project management, communication and ethics

Producing and implementing

Resource allocation Term

Assigning people, time, hardware, software and money to the tasks that need them.

Example: 'Allocate two developers to the database.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Maintenance, version control, stubs and drivers, optimisation

Presenting a solution Term

Using presentation software to show the solution, its features, testing and evaluation to stakeholders.

Example: 'Slides demo the working prototype.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Maintenance, version control, stubs and drivers, optimisation

Version control (project) Term

Keeping a history of file versions so changes can be tracked and undone and several people work together with branches and merges.

Example: 'Commit after each feature.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q4 (1 mark): Collaboration

Memorise: Maintenance, version control, stubs and drivers, optimisation

Strategies for difficulties Term

Looking for a solution online, collaborating with peers and outsourcing.

Example: 'Ask a classmate or search documentation.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: Maintenance, version control, stubs and drivers, optimisation

Prototype Term

An early working model of the solution used to test ideas and gather feedback before final development.

Example: 'A clickable mock-up of the app.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Drawing: User interface sketch

Related past questions: Familiarisation Q9a (3 marks): Prototype and user interface design

Memorise: Maintenance, version control, stubs and drivers, optimisation

User interface (UI) design Diagram

Planning the screens and controls users interact with, so they are clear, consistent and accessible.

Example: 'Large buttons, clear labels, good contrast.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Draw a UI (familiarisation Q9a)
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: Familiarisation Q9a (3 marks): Prototype and user interface design

Memorise: Maintenance, version control, stubs and drivers, optimisation

Testing and evaluating

Testing methodologies Term

Ways of checking code: unit, integration and system testing, using black box and white box approaches.

Example: 'Test each subroutine on its own first.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Language-dependent code optimisation Term

Improving code efficiency using features of the chosen language (list comprehensions, built-in functions, efficient data structures).

Example: 'In Python, use a list comprehension instead of a loop.'

Where you would use it in the test

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q4 (1 mark): Optimisation

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Feedback Term

Information from users and stakeholders about how the software works, used to improve it.

Example: 'Survey users after the trial.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Test plan Term

A document listing test cases, test data, expected output and results.

Example: 'Test 1: age = 17, expected output: Accepted.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Drawing: Table of test data
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data); Familiarisation Q5 (3 marks): Testing (test data)

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Path and boundary testing Term

Testing every route through the code (path) and values at the edges of valid ranges (boundary: just inside, on and just outside).

Example: 'Valid range 1-10: test 0, 1, 10, 11.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Give test data (sample Q11, fam Q5)
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data); Familiarisation Q5 (3 marks): Testing (test data)

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Actual v expected output Term

Comparing the output the program produced with the output expected; a difference shows an error.

Example: 'Expected 15, actual 12: logic error.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Feedback report Term

A report that synthesises (combines) feedback from users and testing so improvements can be decided.

Example: 'A summary table of user comments.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Evaluating effectiveness Term

Judging how well the solution meets its requirements using test results, feedback and criteria.

Example: 'Did the solution meet the speed requirement?'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Extended response: Evaluate (extended response)
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Testing methods and maintenance

Functional testing Term

Checking that each function of the software does what the requirements say.

Example: 'Click Add to cart and check the item appears.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Acceptance testing Term

The client or end users check that the finished system meets their needs before accepting it.

Example: 'The school tests the timetable system before signing off.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Live data Term

Real data from the actual working environment used to test the system.

Example: 'Test with real customer orders.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Simulated data Term

Made-up data that imitates real data, used to test safely without risking real information.

Example: 'Generate 1000 fake customers.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Beta testing Term

Real users trial a near-final version of the software and report problems before the full release.

Example: 'A public beta of a new app.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Volume testing Term

Testing the system with large amounts of data to see whether it still performs.

Example: 'Load 1 million records and time the search.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Corrective maintenance Term

Fixing bugs and errors found after release.

Example: 'Patch a crash on logout.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Adaptive maintenance Term

Changing software so it works in a new or changed environment (a new operating system or law).

Example: 'Update the app for a new phone OS.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Perfective maintenance Term

Improving performance or adding features after release.

Example: 'Make search faster.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Functional requirement Term

What the system must do (its functions), as opposed to how well it performs.

Example: 'The system must calculate GST.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

Driver (test driver) Term

Test code that calls the module under test, used with stubs (which stand in for modules the code calls) so a part can be tested before the rest exists.

Example: 'A driver calls calculateTotal() with test values.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data

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