systems analysis and design

This book introduced the concepts of Object-Oriented Analysis and Design in a very iterative and clear way just like the Unified Process itself.

FURPS+ requirements, GRASP design patterns, GoF design patterns, architectural patterns, and many other OOA/D principles where detailed and then implemented in this book with very concrete examples using the Universal Modeling Language.

The author does a very good job of breaking down and explaining the many examples of UML artifacts(diagrams, use-cases, etc.) created during the Inception and Elaboration phases of the development cycle.

The one thing I found missing in this book was an appendix. I felt it would have been easier to follow if the author used an appendix with the artifacts of his POS after each iteration.

Applying UML and Patterns is a great introduction to UML and Object Oriented Analysis and Design. It has a nice slow curve to help introduce newcomers. Each chapter builds upon the concepts and examples of previous chapters to help walk the reader through the process. A point of sale system is used as a consistent example throughout the book. Each chapter adds new features to this system, while simultaniously introducing the reader to new UML concepts. Each new idea is accompanied by several example diagrams with notes to highlight important concepts. Each chapter also includes a quote that should appeal to one's inner computer geek.

The linear progression of this book does have its downsides, however. It is difficult to find specific information, or to start in the middle. Each section assumes you've read everything up to that point, and those expecting to use the book as a refresher or reference may find it difficult to find the information they desire. Similarly, one may confuse the notes on the example diagrams as a part of the diagram if not familiar with the style of the notes.

Overall it is a very well written book that should prove very useful to those new to UML and OOA/D. Those already familiar with the topic should probably look for a less structured source, but beginners should definitely give this book a try.

If you want to introduce to the world of OOAD and Desing Patterns this is the best book for you ! Don't doubt to buy this book. It has been my inspiration to teach OOAD in my Technology Institute in Culiacán, Sinaloa México. Really UML and OOAD was another thing since i knew the Craig's Book !