ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the design factors, their relationship with reliability, and how these factors may be measured or implemented. There are many factors involved in designing software. Many of these factors have a very direct impact on software reliability. Structured design usually has a minimum of global variables and usually utilizes local data passed within parameter statements. Pseudocode is used for detailed design. It resembles code and English, hence its name pseudocode. A form of pseudocode is product descriptive language (PDL). The PDL may be formatted or even compiled as a detailed level design tool. The PDL or pseudocode is a coding tool, especially if it is a formattable automated tool. Formal reviews are a necessary part of the software design process and are intended to minimize ambiguities in requirements and potential design and coding errors. The type of organization that is developing the software may have a direct effect on the software reliability.
