Program design

Software development method

1. Specify the problem requirements.
   State the problem clearly and unambiguously, eliminate unimportant aspects and zero in on the root problem.

2. Analyze the problem. Identify the problem inputs, outputs, and any additional requirements or constraints on the solution. Determine the required format in which the results should be displayed. Develop a list of problem variables and their relationships as formulas.

3. Design the algorithm to solve the problem. Use divide and conquer design method to list major steps or subproblems that need to be solved, such as getting the data, performing the computations, and displaying the results.

4. Implement the algorithm. Convert each algorithm step into one or more statements in a programming language.

5. Test and verify the completed program. Run the program several times using different sets of data, making sure it works correctly for every situation.

6. Maintain and update the program. Modify the program to remove previously undetected errors and to keep it up-to-date as government regulations or company policies change.