The basic goal of software engineering is to produce high quality software at low cost. This goal encompasses several aspects of software development, including the efficiency, reliability, and maintainability of the software.

Producing high quality software:
The primary objective of software engineering is to develop software that meets the requirements and expectations of its users. This involves ensuring that the software is reliable, performs its intended functions accurately, and is free from errors or bugs. High quality software is also user-friendly, providing a seamless and intuitive experience for the end-users.

At low cost:
In addition to quality, software engineering also focuses on cost-effectiveness. This means that the development process should be efficient and cost-efficient, ensuring that resources are utilized optimally. By minimizing development time and effort, software engineers can reduce the overall cost of development, making it more affordable for organizations and end-users.

Efficiency and productivity:
To achieve the goal of producing high quality software at low cost, software engineers employ various methodologies, tools, and best practices. They design and implement efficient systems and logical structures that facilitate the development process. By following well-defined processes and utilizing proven techniques, software engineers can increase productivity and reduce the likelihood of errors or rework.

Continuous improvement:
Software engineering is a dynamic field that constantly evolves to meet the changing demands and challenges of the industry. Engineers are encouraged to continuously improve their skills, adopt new technologies, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. This commitment to continuous improvement helps in producing high quality software by incorporating the latest advancements and best practices.

Cost-benefit analysis:
When making decisions during the software development process, software engineers often perform cost-benefit analyses. They evaluate the potential costs and benefits of different approaches, technologies, and solutions, and make informed decisions based on these analyses. This helps in prioritizing resources and efforts to achieve the goal of producing high quality software at low cost.

In conclusion, the basic goal of software engineering is to produce high quality software at low cost. This encompasses various aspects such as efficiency, reliability, and maintainability. By following best practices, utilizing efficient systems and logical designs, and continuously improving skills, software engineers strive to meet this goal and deliver software that satisfies user requirements while being cost-effective.