Applying UML and Patterns: An Introduction to Object-Oriented Analysis and Design and the Unified Process, Second Edition

16.11. Object Design and CRC Cards

Although not formally part of the UML, another device sometimes used to help assign responsibilities and indicate collaboration with other objects are CRC cards (Class-Responsibility-Collaborator cards) [BC89]. These were pioneered by Kent Beck and Ward Cunningham, who are largely responsible for encouraging objects designers to think more abstractly in terms of responsibility assignment and collaborations, and also for the use of patterns.

CRC cards are index cards, one for each class, upon which the responsibilities of the class are briefly written, and a list of collaborator objects to fulfill those responsibilities. They are usually developed in a small group session. The GRASP patterns may be applied when ...