High Level Design
Introduction to High-Level Design for Software Engineers:
High-level design (HLD) stands at the crossroads of abstract vision and concrete implementation in the software development journey. As software engineers, venturing into the realms of high-level design is akin to crafting the architectural blueprint that will guide the construction of a robust and scalable software system. This phase involves a strategic overview, encapsulating critical decisions that set the tone for the subsequent stages of development.
Functional Requirements:
At the heart of high-level design lie the functional requirements, which outline the expected behavior and features of the system. This section meticulously details the functionalities that the software must deliver, providing a comprehensive roadmap for subsequent design and development efforts.
Non-functional Requirements:
Beyond mere functionalities, the non-functional requirements define the system's performance, reliability, and other quality attributes. Factors such as scalability, security, and usability find their place here, guiding the engineering team towards designing a system that not only works but excels in various real-world scenarios.
Hardware Estimation (Back of the Envelope Calculation):
High-level design involves an initial estimation of the hardware requirements, often through back-of-the-envelope calculations. This section ensures a preliminary understanding of the computational resources needed, aiding in the selection of appropriate infrastructure to support the envisioned system.
API Design:
API design plays a pivotal role in enabling communication between different components of the system. A well-thought-out API design ensures seamless integration and collaboration, promoting modularity and extensibility in the overall architecture.
High-Level Architecture:
The architectural skeleton of the system takes shape in this section, mapping out the arrangement and interaction of major components. High-level architecture considers factors such as microservices, monoliths, or other architectural paradigms, aligning the design with the project's goals and requirements.
Choice of Storage Systems:
Selecting the right storage systems is a critical decision that hinges on factors like data volume, access patterns, and performance requirements. High-level design dictates the choice between relational databases, NoSQL databases, or a combination of both, laying the groundwork for efficient data management.
Monitoring System:
Anticipating the need for system health and performance monitoring, this section outlines the design for incorporating monitoring tools and frameworks. A well-designed monitoring system provides valuable insights into system behavior, enabling proactive issue resolution and optimization.
In summary, high-level design serves as the architectural compass, guiding software engineers through the intricate decisions that shape the foundation of a successful software system. It is a meticulous orchestration of functional and non-functional aspects, hardware considerations, API design, architecture, storage choices, and monitoring strategies – all converging to create a roadmap for subsequent development phases.