What is modularization in software engineering?

Answer 1

Modularization is the process of breaking a software system into a set of collaborating components. Each of these components should ideally have high cohesion and low coupling.

Modularization is inherently a recursive process. A real world example of modularization would be a car. A car is composed of an engine, doors, chassis, etc. However, each component is then composed of modules, i.e. the door has a window, door lock, handle, etc.

High cohesion means that each of a components components are closely related to each other, i.e. above the door's components of the window, door lock, and handle are all closely related.

Low coupling means that each component should be independent of the other components. In the case of a car, the engine is clearly independent of the door. Low coupling means that different components can be developed by independent teams without affecting each other.

Modularization in software involves partitioning a software system into logical components by a software architect. For example, a banking software system might be broken into the following components:

• ATM software
• Teller interface software
• Back office transaction processing