IBM COBOL Software Development Practices

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/software-development-practices

Introduction

**Course Review: IBM COBOL Software Development Practices on Coursera** In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the programming language COBOL may seem like a relic from the past. However, as many organizations still rely on legacy systems built with COBOL, there is an increasing demand for professionals who possess a solid understanding of this powerful language. The **IBM COBOL Software Development Practices** course on Coursera provides an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in COBOL or software development to deepen their understanding of this essential language and its practices. ### Overview The IBM COBOL Software Development Practices course serves as a comprehensive introduction to the core practices, systems, and methodologies associated with COBOL software development within IBM frameworks. The course is designed for a broad audience, from complete novices eager to explore programming to experienced developers looking to refresh their COBOL skills. Throughout the course, participants will become familiar with key concepts such as code documentation, working with existing code, quality assurance (QA), technical support, and project management—all critical components for effective software development. ### Course Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Welcome to IBM COBOL Software Development Practices** The journey begins with a warm welcome to the course, where the instructors outline the objectives and key course details. This introductory module sets the tone for the learning experience, ensuring that participants understand the course's scope and goals. 2. **Documenting Your Code** This module emphasizes the importance of documentation in COBOL programming. Participants will learn to appreciate the language’s self-documenting features and the significance of clear documentation for various audiences. This knowledge is vital, as well-documented code enhances collaboration and maintainability. 3. **Working with Existing Code** Often, developers encounter legacy codebases that require modification. Here, learners will explore techniques for analyzing and making changes to existing COBOL code. By the end of this module, participants will be equipped with the skills to identify necessary adjustments and utilize modern tools to enhance existing systems. 4. **Quality Assurance (QA) and Technical Support Concepts** Quality assurance is a cornerstone of successful software development, and this module familiarizes participants with QA processes specific to COBOL. Learners will gain insights into managing bugs, utilizing COBOL ticketing systems, and understanding essential technical support concepts—skills that are crucial in any software environment. 5. **Technical Project Management** In the final instructional module, participants will delve into project management concepts relevant to the software development life cycle (SDLC) in COBOL. This includes an exploration of agile and scrum methodologies, providing a robust understanding of project management in a technical context. 6. **Congratulations on Completing IBM COBOL Software Development Practices** The course wraps up with a congratulatory module that revisits the objectives achieved throughout the course. Participants are presented with next steps, encouraging continuous learning and application of COBOL practices in real-world settings. ### Pros and Cons **Pros:** - Comprehensive content that covers all critical aspects of COBOL software development. - Practical focus on real-world applications of COBOL. - Flexible online learning format that allows participants to learn at their own pace. - Strong support from IBM, a leader in software development. **Cons:** - The course may be challenging for those with no prior programming experience. - Limited interactive components may affect engagement for some learners. ### Recommendation I highly recommend the IBM COBOL Software Development Practices course on Coursera for individuals looking to enhance their skills in COBOL or software development. This course is especially beneficial for those seeking to fill roles in organizations that maintain legacy systems or for those interested in pivoting their careers toward COBOL development. With its well-structured modules, practical applications, and comprehensive coverage of important topics, this course provides valuable resources to equip you for success in COBOL programming. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced developer, enrolling in this course is a worthwhile investment that can elevate your career in software development. Dive in and unlock the potential of COBOL!

Syllabus

Welcome to IBM COBOL Software Development Practices

In the first module of this course, we welcome everyone to the course, present the course objectives, and define other pertinent course details.

In the second module of the course, we will describe the critical task and function of documenting your COBOL code. By the end of this module, you will understand COBOL as a self-documenting language, define COBOL documentation usage and audience, and describe the need and process of documenting the undocumented in COBOL.

In the third module of the course, we will describe the process of working with existing COBOL code. By the end of this module, you will identify changes required in existing code, decide how much to change, and analyze existing code with modern tools.

In the fourth module of the course, we will describe COBOL quality assurance (QA) and technical support concepts. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe managing bugs, explain COBOL ticketing systems, and list core COBOL technical support concepts.

In the fifth module of the course, we will describe COBOL technical project management. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe project management concepts related to the COBOL SDLC, identify agile and scrum project management concepts, and list COBOL project management core competencies.

In this module, will congratulate everyone for completing the course, present the completed course objectives, and define other pertinent course details and next steps.