Chapter 14. Emergent Design: A Case Study

The essential thesis of this book is that developing software, by its nature, is an evolutionary process. What we eventually build is almost always different than what we believe we will build when we start. If this is so, there is great value to the developer to establish principles, practices, and disciplines that will enhance his ability to capitalize on what is known, at any point, and to benefit from the ability to change when new truths emerge over time.

All of the “Paying Attention to” chapters have been intended to establish a list of practices and principles that, at least in my opinion, all contribute in this way. Now, I want to illustrate their value by walking through an evolving project. ...

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