High Cohesion and Low Coupling: Structured and Scalable Code
The principles of High Cohesion and Low Coupling (HC-LC) are pivotal for quality software development.
May 29, 2025
High Cohesion and Low Coupling: Structured and Scalable Code
The principles of High Cohesion and Low Coupling (HC-LC) are pivotal for quality software development.
1. Understanding HC-LC π§
- High Cohesion (HC): Modules or classes should focus on a single responsibility, with closely related tasks grouped together.
- Low Coupling (LC): Aim for minimal dependencies between modules, promoting independence and flexibility.
2. Key Benefits of HC-LC π
- Independent Modules: Changes in one module do not impact others, enhancing maintainability.
- Simplified Maintenance: Easier understanding and modifications of code.
- Effective Scalability: Effortlessly expand or modify programs.
- Improved Unit Testing: Isolated modules can be tested effectively.
3. Strategies for Implementing HC-LC π―
- Define Clear Responsibilities: Each module/class should have a specific goal.
- Utilize Abstractions and Explicit Dependencies: Use interfaces to limit direct dependencies.
- Limit Communication: Keep interactions to a necessary minimum.
- Apply Design Patterns: Use patterns like Mediator, Observer, or FaΓ§ade to reduce direct dependencies.
4. Practical Example: HC-LC in JavaScript π οΈ
β οΈ Low Cohesion and High Coupling:
class Sistema {
procesarDatos(datos) {
// validation
if(datos.length === 0) throw new Error("Sin datos");
// direct database connection
const db = new Database();
db.guardar(datos);
}
}
β High Cohesion and Low Coupling:
class ValidadorDatos {
validar(datos) {
if (datos.length === 0) throw new Error("Sin datos");
return true;
}
}
class DatabaseService {
constructor(database) {
this.database = database;
}
guardar(datos) {
this.database.guardar(datos);
}
}
class Sistema {
constructor(validador, dbService) {
this.validador = validador;
this.dbService = dbService;
}
procesarDatos(datos) {
if(this.validador.validar(datos)){
this.dbService.guardar(datos);
}
}
}
// Independent implementation
const validador = new ValidadorDatos();
const dbService = new DatabaseService(new MySQLDatabase());
const sistema = new Sistema(validador, dbService);
sistema.procesarDatos(["dato1", "dato2"]);
This revised approach facilitates easier changes, testing, and future maintenance.
5. Additional Tips for HC-LC π
- Continuously refactor to enhance cohesion and reduce coupling.
- Focus on small, specialized modules.
- Regularly evaluate dependencies between components.
6. Conclusion: Continuous Improvement with HC-LC π
Adhering to High Cohesion and Low Coupling principles is essential for developing robust, flexible, and scalable software. Regular application of HC-LC simplifies maintenance, expansion, and testing, ensuring each module has a clear responsibility with minimal interactions for exceptional results.