Software Engineering Issues In The Design Of An Upwardly-Complex Water Network Analysis Program

Building a computer program for the steady state simulation of water distribution networks using state-of-the-art techniques and graphical user interfaces (GUI) involves the interaction of several disciplines and mobilization of appropriate resources. This chapter reports on the experience of building such software. The mathematical model is described and the use of graph theory tools in the description of networks together with an algorithm for the treatment of Pressure Reducing Valves have been highlighted. The GUI organization and CASE tools used are described. During testing of the program, lack of benchmark data has been recognized together with the major sources of uncertainties and it is imperative that benchmarks should be developed. The factors that influence quality assurance during the crucial phase of software development have also been identified and discussed in the light of the present experience. Although similar commercial packages do exist, this software will be used as a platform for future extensions to include: extended period simulation; explicit determination of network parameters; and the capability to simulate unsteady conditions.