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CRC (Class Responsibility Collaborator) cards

Last updated on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

Definition:

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CRC (Class Responsibility Collaborator) cards are a tool used in Extreme Programming (XP) to facilitate collaborative design discussions among team members. Each card represents a class in the software system and lists its responsibilities and collaborators. By visually organizing this information on cards, teams can better understand the relationships between classes, clarify their roles and interactions, and make informed decisions during the software development process.

The Role of CRC (Class Responsibility Collaborator) Cards in Agile Methodologies

When it comes to software development in the realm of computer science, Agile methodologies have gained significant popularity due to their iterative and collaborative approach to project management. One of the key tools used in Agile development, particularly in the context of Extreme Programming (XP), is CRC cards.

Understanding CRC Cards

CRC cards stand for Class Responsibility Collaborator cards. They are a brainstorming tool used in Agile software development to aid in the design of classes and their interactions within a system. The concept was first introduced by Ward Cunningham and Kent Beck as part of the XP methodology.

Class: Represents a class or an object in the system being developed.

Responsibility: Describes what the class is responsible for doing or managing within the system.

Collaborator: Refers to other classes or objects that the class interacts with to fulfill its responsibilities.

How CRC Cards Work

During a CRC card session, team members write the name of a class at the top of an index card. They then identify the responsibilities of that class, listing them on the card. Finally, they note down the collaborators that the class will interact with to fulfill its responsibilities.

These cards are typically laid out on a table or a board for all team members to see. By visualizing the classes, their responsibilities, and their collaborators, team members can engage in meaningful discussions about the design of the system and make necessary adjustments in real-time.

Benefits of CRC Cards

CRC cards promote collaboration among team members by providing a simple and visual way to discuss and refine the design of the software system. They help in identifying potential issues early in the development process and encourage collective ownership of the codebase.

Additionally, CRC cards facilitate the prioritization of tasks, as team members can easily see which classes have too many responsibilities or dependencies, allowing for a more balanced distribution of work.

Overall, CRC cards serve as a valuable tool in Agile methodologies like Extreme Programming, enhancing communication, design clarity, and overall project success.

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