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Interfaces (connections):

Inputs and outputs need to be documented. When someone wants to use a component, they need to know how to interface with it. In addition to understanding the inputs and outputs of a component, it is helpful to know the status of the component: 'ok', 'error', etc.

A well designed component is 're-entrant' (can be re-entered). In order for a component to be re-entrant, the 'state' (condition) of the items passing through the component must be kept external to the component. The interfaces are affected because the inputs and outputs must include the state.

With well defined interfaces, separate individuals, separate teams or even separate companies can work on different components at the same time. This provides an opportunity for increased productivity.

A well defined interface is crucial for component testing. Part of the definition process includes documenting expected inputs and outputs.