Programming Plan for Algorithm Animation
September 1999

The major part of the programming of these animations will be done by contract programming. The applet design and initial algorithm design is done by Nancy McCracken. Additional algorithm specifications will be written by Nancy McCracken and Geoffrey Fox.

The initial applet programming will be done by working with one programmer to complete the design of applet data structures for the animation process and to check the design. It is intended to work closely with the programmer during this initial phase. The goal is that the initial applet will form a pattern for the additional algorithm applets.

The initial applet is based on a specification for the animation of the PDE applet. The programmer may request meetings with Nancy for clarification of the specification or to further work on design issues. It is expected that a prototype of the initial applet should be working at the end of 25-40 programming hours. This prototype should include controls for animation rate, but may work for only one processor configuration and array size. At this time, evaluation will identify any design problems and what additional options should be implemented. It is expected that there may be an additional 10-20 hours of work. The result will be a carefully designed applet that can be used as a pattern for additional applets.

Also, at the time of the design check of the prototype, the list of additional algorithms will be made and additional specifications will be written by Nancy and Geoffrey. At this time, more programmers may be added to also write applets.

The programmer will be paid on an hourly basis at the time that the final running applet and design are accepted. NPAC is to receive the source code and documentation.