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NSWSoftware EngineeringQuick questions
Module 4: Software Engineering Project
Quick questions on Software development methodologies explained: HSC Software Engineering Module 4
13short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is waterfall?Show answer
A sequential methodology. The project flows downstream through fixed phases:
What is agile?Show answer
An iterative, incremental methodology. The project is broken into short iterations (1-4 weeks). Each iteration delivers a working slice of software.
What is scrum in detail?Show answer
The most widely used agile variant:
What is kanban in detail?Show answer
Continuous flow, no fixed sprint. The team maintains a visual board with columns (To do, In progress, In review, Done) and a work-in-progress (WIP) limit per column. Items flow through the board as capacity allows.
What is when to choose what?Show answer
Most real teams pick a base methodology and adapt. A scrum team may also use kanban for support tickets. A waterfall project may use agile sprints inside the implementation phase.
What is a worked example?Show answer
A two-person team building a study app. They choose scrum:
What is strengths?Show answer
predictable plan, clear deliverables, suits regulated and contracting environments where every requirement must be traceable.
What is weaknesses?Show answer
assumes requirements are known up front, late discovery of defects is expensive, no working software until late in the project, struggles when requirements change.
What is when to use?Show answer
building regulations, defence procurement, certified medical devices, anything with a fully specified contract.
What is listing ceremonies without their purpose?Show answer
Markers want the reason for each ceremony (stand-up for visibility, retrospective for improvement), not just the name.
What is calling waterfall "outdated"?Show answer
Waterfall is still appropriate in regulated and contracting contexts. Methodology fit is the right framing, not chronology.
What is forgetting kanban?Show answer
It is a real third option, especially for support and operations work.
What is listing "agile" as a fix for every problem?Show answer
Adopting scrum ceremonies without changing the underlying culture (cross-functional teams, willingness to change direction) produces "scrum-but" - the rituals without the benefits. :::