Objectives

After you read this chapter you should be able to:

• Describe the process of designing, programming, and debugging a computer program
• Explain why there are many different programming languages, and give examples of several
• Explain why computer languages are built into applications, operating systems, and utilities
• Outline the steps in the life cycle of an information system, and explain the purpose of program maintenance
• Explain the relationship between computer programming and computer science
• Describe the problems faced by software engineers in trying to produce reliable large systems
• Explain why software companies provide only limited warranties for their products