Software Architecture for the Internet of Things from Coursera

Dive into the world of IoT system architecture with a course that doesn't just teach you the "how," but also the "why." Learn the art and science of building robust, scalable, and interoperable IoT systems. This five-week course takes you on a comprehensive journey from understanding the imperative of well-planned architecture to mastering the nuances of quality attributes and scenarios.

Why should you care? Because the business impact of your technical decisions can make or break your IoT project. The course kicks off by exploring the significance of a well-conceived architecture and the challenges that can thwart even the best-laid plans. By the end of week two, you won't just be a passive learner; you'll be writing your own requirements! And as you delve into weeks three and four, you'll gain invaluable skills in defining quality attributes tailored to specific cases. Wrap it all up in week five, where you'll translate theory into practice by applying your newfound knowledge to an Android framework.

Ready to architect the future? Click here to enroll and become the IoT architect every company needs.

What's inside

Syllabus

Getting to know Software Architecture

This module will introduce you to the world of software architecture. We'll define what SA actually is, why it is important and talk about some of the challenges faced in modern Software Engineering. This course is also part of a Blended Master Programme in Internet of Things through Embedded Systems.

Design process and software requirements

Creating good software starts with a solid understanding of the requirements that will have an influence on the software. In this module, we will discuss both functional and non-functional requirements, such as quality attributes, business requirements and constraints.

Quality Attributes

Up till now, we have been talking about quality in an informal way. However, if you want to build systems that support the required qualities you will need a way to express those quality attributes and understand how you can achieve them. After this module you should be able to formulate your own quality requirements. We will also study 2 qualities that are especially relevant for Internet of Things: interoperability and modifiability.

Tactics

In the fourth week, we will explain how architectural tactics can help you create a software architecture that achieves the predefined requirements. This is what needs to be done in step three of the ADD - remember? We'll start of by learning about the difference between tactics and patterns. We will give some examples of tactics to achieve interoperability and modifiability. We will discuss the MVC pattern and its relation to the modifiability tactics. Lastly, we'll discuss how MVC is being used in Android.

Patterns

In this last week, we will explain how architectural patterns can help you create a software architecture that achieves the predefined requirements. Patterns are closely related to tactics, as we saw last week. First, we'll look at different types of patterns. Then, we'll learn how to combine tactics and patterns. We'll conclude this last week with a case study: DYAMAND's requirements and their architecture.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores well-planned architecture, which is standard in industry

Teaches full stack development in the Android framework

Emphasizes quality attribute, which contributes to business success

Provides a comprehensive journey on IoT system architecture, which is beneficial for learners

Taught by Frank Gielen, who are recognized for their work in IoT

This course may require extensive background knowledge in software architecture

Reviews summary

Iot software architecture tutorial

Learners say that this IoT Software Architecture introductory course is well-structured and engaging. It teaches the fundamentals of software architecture in general, and how they relate to the Internet of Things. Graduates say that the takeaway value is strong, and they recommend this course for anyone who has a background in IoT hardware.

Well-structured content.

"It is a great course to start with Internet of Things when you know the hardware level already."

"The course is nicely designed."

"At first, Software Architecture was thought in general, and then it was linked to the Internet of Things scenarios."

High takeaway value.

"The takeaway for this course is good."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Software Architecture for the Internet of Things with these activities:

Review basic software architecture principles and concepts

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Strengthen the foundation of software architecture knowledge for a smoother learning experience.

Browse courses on Software Architecture

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Review previous course materials or online resources.
Attend a workshop or seminar on software architecture.
Work on a small software architecture project.

Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software

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Solidify knowledge of software architecture by reviewing a widely recognized and respected resource on design patterns.

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Read the book at your own pace.
Create a summary of each pattern, including its description, benefits, and drawbacks.
Discuss the patterns with classmates or colleagues.

Create a mock design for an IoT system

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Enhance practical understanding of IoT system design through hands-on project experience.

Browse courses on IoT System Design

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Identify a specific IoT application domain.
Define the system requirements and constraints.
Design the system architecture, including components, their interconnections, and data flow.

Six other activities

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Identify quality attributes associated with IoT system requirements

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Strengthen the ability to recognize essential quality attributes in IoT systems, improving design and testing processes.

Browse courses on Quality Attributes

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Review different quality attributes relevant to IoT systems.
Analyze a set of IoT system requirements.
Identify and categorize the relevant quality attributes.

Develop an IoT system architecture diagram

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Improve visual representation and communication skills by creating a visual representation of an IoT system architecture.

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Select appropriate diagramming tools.
Design the visual representation using industry-standard notations.
Validate the diagram with peers or domain experts.

Write a blog post on an IoT system architecture topic

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Enhance communication and critical thinking skills by explaining IoT system architecture concepts through writing.

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Select a specific topic within IoT system architecture.
Research and gather relevant information.
Organize and outline the blog post.
Craft the content, ensuring clarity, conciseness, and accuracy.

Follow online tutorials on IoT architecture design patterns

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Acquire knowledge and practical skills in IoT architecture design patterns through guided online learning.

Browse courses on Software Design

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Identify reputable online learning platforms.
Search for tutorials on IoT architecture design patterns.
Follow the tutorials, taking notes and completing exercises.

Participate in a peer study group focused on IoT architecture

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Improve understanding and critical thinking skills through collaborative learning and peer support.

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Join or create a peer study group.
Establish a schedule and meeting format.
Discuss course materials, ask questions, and share insights.

Volunteer as a mentor to new students in the IoT architecture field

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Strengthen foundational knowledge and solidify understanding of IoT architecture concepts by teaching others.

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Identify opportunities to mentor new students.
Establish a mentorship relationship.
Provide guidance and support.

Career center

Learners who complete Software Architecture for the Internet of Things will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

IoT Architect

An IoT Architect designs and builds the infrastructure for IoT systems. This course would help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful IoT Architect. You will learn about the different aspects of IoT architecture, including network protocols, security, and data management. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design of IoT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for IoT Architect

Software Architect

A Software Architect designs and builds the overall structure of software systems. This course would help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Software Architect. You will learn about the different aspects of software architecture, including design principles, quality attributes, and patterns. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design of IoT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect

Cloud Architect

A Cloud Architect designs and builds cloud-based systems. This course would help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Cloud Architect. You will learn about the different aspects of cloud architecture, including cloud computing models, cloud services, and cloud security. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design of cloud-based systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

Data Architect

A Data Architect designs and builds data management systems. This course would help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Data Architect. You will learn about the different aspects of data architecture, including data modeling, data integration, and data governance. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design of data management systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect

DevOps Engineer

A DevOps Engineer is responsible for the smooth operation of the software development and deployment process. This course would help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful DevOps Engineer. You will learn about the different aspects of DevOps, including continuous integration, continuous delivery, and infrastructure automation. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the operation of software development and deployment processes.

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Security Engineer

A Security Engineer is responsible for the security of computer systems and networks. This course would help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Security Engineer. You will learn about the different aspects of security, including cryptography, network security, and security auditing. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the security of computer systems and networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Software Engineer. You will learn about the different aspects of software engineering, including software design, software development, and software testing. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design, development, and maintenance of software systems.

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Web Developer

A Web Developer designs and develops websites. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Web Developer. You will learn about the different aspects of web development, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design and development of websites.

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Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for the management of databases. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Database Administrator. You will learn about the different aspects of database administration, including database design, database optimization, and database security. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the management of databases.

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Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs and builds computer networks. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Network Engineer. You will learn about the different aspects of network engineering, including network design, network implementation, and network security. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design and construction of computer networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Systems Analyst

A Systems Analyst designs and implements business systems. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Systems Analyst. You will learn about the different aspects of systems analysis, including requirements gathering, systems design, and systems implementation. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the design and implementation of business systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst analyzes business processes and systems. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Business Analyst. You will learn about the different aspects of business analysis, including requirements gathering, process analysis, and systems analysis. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the analysis of business processes and systems.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager plans and executes projects. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Project Manager. You will learn about the different aspects of project management, including project planning, project execution, and project control. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the planning and execution of projects.

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Quality Assurance Analyst

A Quality Assurance Analyst ensures the quality of software products. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Quality Assurance Analyst. You will learn about the different aspects of quality assurance, including quality planning, quality control, and quality improvement. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the assurance of the quality of software products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates and maintains technical documentation. This course may help you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Technical Writer. You will learn about the different aspects of technical writing, including technical writing principles, technical style, and technical editing. You will also learn how to apply these principles to the creation and maintenance of technical documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer