Software Architect's Handbook

Advantages of the top-down approach

There are a number of benefits to using a top-down approach. It is a systematic approach to design and breaks the system down into smaller parts. As a system is decomposed, it lends itself well to the division of work. On larger projects with multiple teams, this work can be divided among the teams.

As further decomposition takes place, tasks can be created for individual team members. This supports project management in the assignment of tasks, scheduling, and budgeting. This type of ability to plan is attractive to enterprises. The management teams of organizations may prefer, or even insist on, a top-down approach. Earlier in the book, we discussed how, as a software architect, you may be asked to assist ...