[unios] BAck to the basics

[Pat Wendorf]

Pieter Dumon wrote:

> Let's get back to the basics of computing...

> And design an OS model form there. We are designeing new models
> which have beautiful features we don't need but lack the things we _do_
> need. That's not the way to go. Before thinking of some 'innovative'
> model, that in the end is nothing more than existing stuff, we should
> think at how computing is organized.
> So, let's start with 100-years-old stuff such as the Turing model, and
> the Neumann model on which all modern computers are built. Let's start
> with the first diagram in every course on computers:
>
>  INPUT -----> PROCESSING -----> OUTPUT

If we are on the topic of basics, then we should also be aware of another
basic procedure in developing any kind of system, called the System
Development Life Cycle (SDLC).  This is a phrase that Systems Analysts throw
around quite often.  It's just a set of procedures that outlines how the
development of a new system should proceed.  I know most of you probably have
already taken a course, or work with it every day, so this will just be for
those who are new to the concept.
It's more or less how UniOS is proceeding, but it's never been formally
defined for every one to see.

<pulling out dusty Systems Methods textbook from shelf>

Step 1 - Planning - identify the problem, identify the goal ,brainstorm
possible solutions
Step 2 - Analysis - Study and analyze the cause and effects of the problems
then identify the requirements that MUST be fulfilled
Step 3 - Design - If necessary, design or define a solution.
Step 4 - Implementation - Make it work
Step 5 - Support - Make it work for others

These steps are a cycle... at any point, if the problem changes we must go
back and revise from the beginning.

I believe UniOS, and probably Tunes are still on Step 1.  If everyone agrees
that this is a logical place for the project to start, then I propose that due
to our time schedules, and physical distance and time zone differences, we
have an web based, automated Project Planning page.  It would be a form based
page, in which we contribute problems, ideas, goals, and possible solutions
whenever we wish.  This would ease the administrative difficulty I have (due
to my inability to do ANYTHING useful while at school (firewall issues)), and
also give everyone a level of freedom with expression, that was not available
before.  Essentially, my own inability to coordinate at the rate that the
project demands, should not impair the project in any way, and as I am an
automation specialist by profession (industrial, not web :), I really wonder
why I didn't think of this before :)  Hopefully our server should be up soon
(yes it is still not up... ), and Tril and I will work out the details on how
to make it happen (he is also working on automating the Tunes page).

I hope everyone is well, and happy, and I hope to post more soon.

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Pat Wendorf
UniOS Group
http://members.xoom.com/unios
beholder@ican.net
ICQ: 1503733
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