Computers as Components, 3rd Edition

7.2 Design Methodologies

This section considers the complete design methodology—a design process—for embedded computing systems. We will start with the rationale for design methodologies, then look at several different methodologies.

7.2.1 Why Design Methodologies?

Process is important because without it, we can’t reliably deliver the products we want to create. Thinking about the sequence of steps necessary to build something may seem superfluous. But the fact is that everyone has their own design process, even if they don’t articulate it. If you are designing embedded systems in your basement by yourself, having your own work habits is fine. But when several people work together on a project, they need to agree on who will do things and how ...