Your Code as a Crime Scene

Chapter 11Norms, Groups, and False Serial Killers

Part II showed you how to analyze high-level designs and architectures. We based the techniques on the concept of temporal coupling. You learned to use temporal coupling to evaluate how well your software architecture supports the modifications you make to the code.

We also discussed how you can use that information to detect structural decay, supervise test-automation efforts, and guide your design discussions. You also saw how the hotspot analyses from Part I complement your new forensic code skills. As far as technology goes, you’re set with what you need to uncover the mysteries of your codebase.

But large-scale software projects are more than technical problems. Software development is ...