Modular programming is a type of software coding and development that involves breaking data into smaller packets, or “modules.” In most cases these modules are easier for larger processing systems to absorb, which can make them faster and more efficient on the user end; perhaps more importantly to the coding side, though, is that the packets’ smaller size means they can be individually tested, developed, and refined. Breaking programs into smaller pieces has in many ways made development much more thorough and precise, and has also opened numerous doors to innovation. Parceling out programs isn’t usually as simple as simply drawing lines, though. Most of the time, modules are divided based on their core commonalities and with an eye towards minimizing overlapping dependencies the components might have in common. The end goal is usually to parcel out the program so that it can be speedily and accurately developed into one seamless whole with a minimum of effort or overlapping checks.
Basic Concept and Core Advantages
Software programming and coding comes in many different forms and can have a number of discreet goals. As operations become increasingly complex, though, the process of creating, debugging, and executing all of the individual components that together form the larger program can be a big job — in some cases, so big that things have already changed in the initial phases before the last pieces are completed. One of the most efficient ways to work around issues and maximize efficiency in building is to break the code into modules, which has become a standard way of coding in most arenas. Among other things, it's a process that generally helps shorten development time and avoid replicating code
Identifying Commonalities
Identifying commonalities within software is the foundation of modular programming. By grouping like objects and processes together and making sure each resulting module works well, the proper functioning of the entire system is enhanced. That is, if the modules function well in terms of what that module is there to do, they are more likely work well when put together.
Importance of Minimal Dependencies
Minimal dependencies among modules is another key characteristic. Basically, minimal dependencies means that there can be many relationships among objects within a module and few relationships among objects in separate modules. To assess the degree of dependency within a program, software developers employ a measurement process known as coupling. Some coupling is necessary in order for the modules to work together to achieve the goal of the software program as a whole, but to reduce the possibility of error, little coupling is best from a modular programming standpoint.
Information Hiding
Information hiding, yet another aspect often employed in this more parceled approach to programming, also helps streamline things and reduce errors and redundancies. Essentially, this feature restricts the amount of information provided to only that which is necessary. Additional, though perhaps related, information is not relayed to the user of the software or the program module that is requesting information from another module within the program.
Role of the Code Library
Modular programming typically utilizes one compiled code library, which implements consistency in the coding or programming of each module. If a program consists of Module A, Module B and Module C, all those modules will run off a single code source that is reusable across all modules. The lack of repetition for each module both enhances system performance and decreases the possibility of human error in coding.
Upgrade Potential
The concept of division makes each module and what comprises it independent of one another, but each module is still dependent on the same base code. The exclusivity between modules allows a developer to replace or upgrade individual pieces of the software at a time. A more parceled approach allows the developer to load the required parts of a program as needed. The ability to easily make additions or changes to software without the need to modify the base program also allows developers to release multiple versions of a software application that have customizable components.
