Stop writing dataset-centric programs, start thinking about true object-orientation, and let's join forces to write programs and design architectures that are easier to understand and more accessible to all.
by J. Ambrose Little
February 8, 2006
n a recent issue ("Am I a Mad Scientist?" CoDe Magazine, May/June 2005), I wrote about the obvious practical benefits of creating strongly-typed classes within a custom software application. Since then, I've been thinking more about the not-so-obvious benefits of object-oriented design (OOD), which seem to be worth discussing as well because they appear to be rooted in a better way to develop software. The first article centered on the benefits mainly of strong typing; this one focuses more on the benefits of, if you'll allow, true OOD.
By "true object-oriented design" I mean object-driven design; that is, basing your software solution domain on the actual problem domain as opposed to, say, data-driven design, which is by far the more common design approach within Microsoft circles. I think this point doesn't bear much proving in this article, as it is patently obvious by the artifacts existing today in the form of marketing, presentations, tutorials, the majority of Microsoft-related articles, developer tools, and indeed in the many millions of applications existing today that are clearly the result of data-driven (i.e., starting with the data and how it will be stored and reported upon) design.
It's quick, easy and you get access to all the articles on DevX.
This registration/login is to allow you to read articles on devx.com. Already a member?
To become a member of DevX.com create your Member Profile by completing the form below. Membership is free!
n a recent issue ("Am I a Mad Scientist?" CoDe Magazine, May/June 2005), I wrote about the obvious practical benefits of creating strongly-typed classes within a custom software application. Since then, I've been thinking more about the not-so-obvious benefits of object-oriented design (OOD), which seem to be worth discussing as well because they appear to be rooted in a better way to develop software. The first article centered on the benefits mainly of strong typing; this one focuses more on the benefits of, if you'll allow, true OOD.
