Modular Programming Case

A modular approach to programming ensures that good usable program code is written. During the design phase all aspects of the problem are analyzed and for those that pose a complex program to solve, the modular approach is used. A characteristic of good design and planning is to identify major tasks the program is to solve. Each of these tasks when broken down becomes a program module. These tasks can be broken down to sub-tasks if need be and are called sub-modules. The process of breaking the tasks down into simpler modules and sub-modules is top down design. Identifying the tasks and sub task that are used in the design is modular programming. This process makes the module self contained and independent of other modules and can perform a single task.

There are benefits that make this approach important, it is easier to read and easier locate errors, therefore saving time in editing. Programming modules can be designed and coded by different programmers and promote collaborative development. Modules that are constructed to perform and common process can be used in other programs.

This brings me to consider whether Procedural Programming or Object Oriented Programming (OOP) is specific to Modular Programming. Procedural is related to the method of writing a program, simple, like what we have done so far with Visual Logic. OOP is centered on objects created with data and procedures that function together. It is a combined packaged, so to speak, where the data can be encapsulated and protected and the procedure or methods can be coded and edited separately. These can be used in other programs that would need the particular service. This is closely related to Modular Programming.