What does loose coupling refer to in software design?

Loose coupling in software design refers to minimizing dependencies between components within a system. This concept emphasizes the importance of designing components that are independent from one another so that changes in one component have little to no impact on others. By achieving loose coupling, developers can enhance the system's maintainability and scalability, as components can be modified, replaced, or reused with minimal effort.

In a loosely coupled system, components communicate through well-defined interfaces rather than direct references, allowing for greater flexibility in how they interact. This design practice is essential in modular programming and allows teams to work on different components simultaneously without stepping on each other's toes, ultimately resulting in a more resilient and adaptable codebase.

The other options imply a higher level of interdependence, rigidity, or centralized operations that contradict the principles of loose coupling, making them less suitable in the context of effective software design.