Final answer:
Program specification, also known as program definition or design, outlines the program's objectives, desired output, input data, processing requirements, and documentation. These elements help ensure that the program meets user needs and fits within specific criteria and constraints.
Step-by-step explanation:
Program specification is also known as program definition or program design. It entails detailing five key elements:
- The program's objectives, which represent the goals or intended outcomes of the program.
- The desired output, describing what the program should produce upon execution.
- The input data required, detailing what information is needed for the program to function correctly.
- The processing requirements, which include the steps and computations the program must perform.
- The documentation, which is the written narrative that explains all aspects of the program, including how it operates and how to use it.
Each of these items plays a crucial role in guiding the development and implementation of a program. A clear understanding of the objectives, output, input data, processing steps, and documentation is essential for the success of any programming endeavor, as well as ensuring that it meets the needs and requirements of its intended users.
Identifying criteria and constraints is a vital step in the design process. These serve as guidelines for ensuring that the program meets defined standards (criteria) and operates within certain limitations or conditions (constraints). For instance, budget, time, available personnel, technologies, and government regulations might all represent constraints, while performance and user satisfaction could be among the criteria for a successful design.