Problem Frames and Methods: Analysing and Structuring Software Development Problems (ACM Press) [Paperback]

I tried out the Problem Frames Approach on a couple of my own software development problems, and found out that, just as Jackson asserts, it is a lot easier to think clearly about several small and relatively simple problems than it is to think about one big inchoate problem. Jackson calls this "separation of concerns", and PFA gives you the theoretical justification - and the tools - for doing it. And it works; it produces real and helpful insights and makes requirements analysis much more manageable.

Jackson's method of exposition is detailed discussion of illustrative examples. This means that you have to devote some effort to carefully following the details of many specific examples. If you do, then "Problem Frames" repeatedly passes the Aha! test.

This book and the Problem Frame Approach represent a major advance in the way we approach computer requirements specification. "Problem Frames" is as seminal a work for requirements analysis as Design Patterns was for object-oriented design. Anyone who is seriously interested in computer software requirements analysis -- and especially if you are familiar with Jackson's earlier works -- will absolutely want to study this book.

The structured approach that Mr. Jackson provides starts with bounding the problem and drilling down into subproblems, called problem frames. I like his approach to bounding problems because it shows how to identify and isolate the problem and place it into its proper context. This forces you to focus on the problem and not drift off into a premature solution. I also like how he breaks down problems into manageable chunks by placing subproblems into domains through the use of projections (where subproblem domains overlap) and partitions (where associated phenomena are isolated). This allows you to see the whole problem in its magnificent splendor, which is the first step towards tackling each of its parts.

As Mr. Jackson's approach evolves you will find patterns emerging. If you are a proponent of design patterns you will appreciate how he breaks problems into classes and five basic frames. This is a powerful concept because as you gain experience using problem frames you will be able to quickly classify problems and approach them in a consistent, repeatable manner. This part of the book greatly influenced my way of thinking about problems, and the material is reinforced by examples given in subsequent chapters, as well as chapters devoted to variant and composite frames.

This book is ostensibly about problem frames and methods as they relate to software development. However, the approach given in the book has much wider applications. I was able to relate it to physical devices, processes and procedures. Moreover, Mr. Jackson's approach itself can be decomposed into a collection of useful tools and techniques that, taken individually, will prove invaluable in requirements analysis, design and related endeavors. I am giving it 5 stars only because I cannot give it more.