Chapter 2. Overview of the Rational Unified Process

If you are new to the Rational Unified Process (RUP), this chapter gives you an overview of the process, including how it differs from traditional processes and why it is advantageous for software projects. The RUP cannot be thoroughly covered in a single chapter. If you prefer a complete introduction to RUP fundamentals, refer to the references given in the bibliography.

When undertaking a significant project of any kind (software-related or not), it's important to approach the work in an organized fashion. This is especially important when teams are involved. Following a defined process helps coordinate the work of teams and keeps them focused on the right activities at the right time. It also reduces project risk.