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Object Solutions - Managing the Object-Oriented Project by Grady Booch Recommended

ISBN: 0-8053-0594-7       Publisher: Addison-Wesley       Pages: 323pp       Price: £21-95

Categories:   object oriented     writing solid code

Reviewed by Chris Simons in C Vu 8-5 (Jul 1996)

The book, at 321 pages, offers 'excruciating detail' on the mainstream of OO development process. I was struck by the tremendous depth to which the various parts of the process are examined. A knowledge of the Booch method is not absolutely necessary to grasp the concepts presented, but it undoubtedly helps. The macro and the micro process are distinguished; the macro process is pursued relentlessly - Booch considers this the principal sphere of project management. Booch explores the micro process to a lesser extent.

One nugget I enjoyed was presented in chapter five - 'people are more important than any process'. The discussion of the development team is interesting, but one of the shorter chapters in the book.

The detailed text is not lightweight and deserves study. This format is good for those wishing to expand their understanding of the OO production of software, but would not suit a manager unfamiliar with OO software development. (This contrasts markedly with, e.g. Bertrand Myer's Object Success, which although smaller, I found a much more snappy read with greater impact). Nevertheless, this book represents the capture of a wealth of experience of an expert in the field which makes worthwhile and rewarding study.