Software and Systems Architecture in Action

Chapter 1

Architecture and Its Significance

1.1 Introduction

A system is a set of elements so connected or related that they perform a unique function that cannot be performed by the elements alone. The picture of a modern aircraft in Figure 1.1. illustrates this point. The aircraft has many constituent parts, but none of these parts by itself is capable of flight. Only when put together in a particular way do they enable an aircraft to fly.

Figure 1.1.

Which part of the airplane flies?

We can examine other kinds of systems and make similar observations. A corporation is a social system that produces goods and services that individuals ...