Where to Find Out More

This book is not a complete and definitive reference to the UML, let alone OO analysis and design. A lot of words are out there and a lot of worthwhile things to read. As I discuss the individual topics, I also mention other books you should go to for more in-depth information there. Here are some general books on the UML and object-oriented design.

As with all book recommendations, you may need to check which version of the UML they are written for. As of June 2003, no published book uses UML 2.0, which is hardly surprising, as the ink is barely dry on the standard. The books I suggest are good books, but I can't tell whether or when they will be updated to the UML 2 standard.

If you are new to objects, I recommend my current favorite introductory book: [Larman]. The author's strong responsibility-driven approach to design is worth following.

For the conclusive word on the UML, you should look to the official standards documents; but remember, they are written for consenting methodologists in the privacy of their own cubicles. For a much more digestible version of the standard, take a look at [Rumbaugh, UML Reference].

For more detailed advice on object-oriented design, you'll learn many good things from [Martin].

I also suggest that you read books on patterns for material that will take you beyond the basics. Now that the methods war is over, patterns (page 27) are where most of the interesting material about analysis and design appears.