enkeltprogram

Enkeltprogram is a term used in Swedish computing to describe a software artifact designed to perform a single, well-defined task. It is typically a small program, often a command-line utility or script, that accepts input, executes one operation, and returns output without undertaking additional responsibilities.

Key characteristics of an enkeltprogram include a focused purpose, a small codebase, and minimal dependencies. The behavior is usually deterministic, with clearly defined input and output interfaces. This simplicity facilitates testing, debugging, and maintenance. Portability and predictable side effects are common goals, making enkeltprograms convenient for automation and scripting in varied environments.

In practice, enkeltprograms are common in education, system administration, and lightweight automation. They are used to teach programming basics, illustrate algorithms, or automate repetitive tasks such as file renaming, data conversion, filtering, or small data transformations. They can be written in many languages, including Python, Bash, or compiled languages, depending on the task and environment.

The concept aligns with the broader software engineering principle of the single responsibility principle, emphasizing that a component should have one reason to change. An enkeltprogram is not inherently opposed to modular or compositional design; it is often a building block within larger workflows or pipelines, interacting with other tools rather than containing extensive feature sets itself.

See also: single responsibility principle, script, utility, command-line tool, modular programming.