In homes, schools, and businesses, computers play an ever-increasing role. But while most people today can work a computer - albeit with the help of the ever-present computer software manual - they know little about what goes on inside the box and virtually nothing about software design or the world of computer programming. This guide gives the reader an informative inside look at the world of software design and computer programming and the business that surrounds them. Of particular interest is the presentation of the ideas behind patterns and pattern languages as developed by the architect Christopher Alexander and their relation to software technology.