Chapter 18: Problem 6

Consider mobility not as a class of computing system, but rather as a quality attribute, like security or modifiability. Write a general scenario for mobility. Write a specific mobility scenario for a mobile device of your choosing. Describe a set of tactics to achieve the quality attribute of "mobility."

Short Answer

Expert verified

Mobility involves maintaining seamless operation across different network environments. For a smartphone, ensure session continuity, network adaptation, and data synchronization.

Step by step solution

Define Mobility as a Quality Attribute

Consider mobility not as a type of computing system, but as a quality attribute that describes how effectively a system or component can adapt to being mobile. This includes considerations such as ease of access, connectivity, and user experience while on the move.

Create a General Scenario

A general scenario for mobility could involve a user needing to access a cloud-based application while switching between different network environments (e.g., home Wi-Fi to mobile data to office Wi-Fi). The application should maintain session continuity, data integrity, and consistent response times.

Choose a Mobile Device

Select a specific mobile device to create a specific mobility scenario. For example, choose a smartphone.

Create a Specific Mobility Scenario

For the chosen smartphone, consider a scenario where a user, moving through different environments, needs to compose and send an email while transitioning from a Wi-Fi network at home to mobile data and then to an office Wi-Fi network. The email application must maintain draft content and network connectivity seamlessly.

Describe Tactics to Achieve Mobility

To achieve the quality attribute of mobility, several tactics can be employed: 1. **Session Management:** Implement mechanisms to save the state of user activity across sessions and networks.2. **Network Adaptation:** Design the system to detect and adapt to changes in network conditions without user intervention.3. **Data Synchronization:** Ensure data is synchronized in real-time across different access points and networks.4. **Redundancy:** Use redundant data paths to ensure data availability even when switching networks.5. **Error Handling:** Implement robust error handling to manage network interruptions gracefully.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Mobility Scenario

A mobility scenario examines how users interact with a mobile system as they move across different environments. Imagine a typical user who needs to access a cloud-based application. They start on home Wi-Fi, switch to mobile data while commuting, and finally connect to office Wi-Fi. The application should allow uninterrupted access during these transitions, maintaining session continuity and consistent performance. This scenario highlights the importance of seamless interaction, regardless of the network changes.

Quality Attributes

Quality attributes determine how well a system meets various non-functional requirements like performance, security, and usability. In the context of mobility, quality attributes become crucial. For instance, a mobile application must address:

**Connectivity**: Ensuring continuous connectivity without user intervention.
**Performance**: Maintaining consistent response times across varying network conditions.
**Usability**: Guaranteeing a smooth user experience as users transition between different networks.

By focusing on these attributes, developers can create robust mobile applications.

Session Management

Session management is key in mobile computing. It involves saving the state of user activities so that work can continue seamlessly across different sessions and networks. For example, if a user is composing an email on their smartphone and moves from home Wi-Fi to mobile data, the app should preserve the email draft and allow the user to keep writing without interruption. Effective session management ensures continuity and a seamless user experience.

Network Adaptation

Network adaptation refers to the ability of a system to detect changes in network conditions and adapt accordingly. A smart mobile application should:

Smoothly transition between networks like Wi-Fi and cellular data.
Automatically adjust data usage based on the available bandwidth.
Maintain stable performance by prioritizing essential functions during poor connectivity.

This adaptability minimizes user disruptions and provides a consistent experience, despite fluctuating network conditions.

Data Synchronization

Data synchronization is essential for ensuring that data remains consistent across different devices and networks in real-time. For example, if a user updates a document on their smartphone, the changes should reflect instantly on their tablet or laptop. Effective data synchronization involves:

**Real-time Updates**: Ensuring that data changes are propagated immediately.
**Conflict Resolution**: Handling conflicting changes gracefully to maintain data integrity.
**Redundancy**: Using redundant data paths to ensure availability and reliability.

By prioritizing data synchronization, mobile applications can offer a cohesive and reliable user experience.

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Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Mobility as a Quality Attribute

Create a General Scenario

Choose a Mobile Device

Create a Specific Mobility Scenario

Describe Tactics to Achieve Mobility

Key Concepts

Mobility Scenario

Quality Attributes

Session Management

Network Adaptation

Data Synchronization

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