ISSN:
1573-8787
Keywords:
Software reuse
;
software integration
;
software specification
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Computer Science
Notes:
Abstract Building systems by integrating components and building systems by reusing components are but two sides of the same coin. In both cases one faces the problem of producing systems out of prefabricated parts, either parts which have been designed for a different environment than the one they will be used in now, or parts which have been designed for a yet undefined target system. This situation differs from classical software design situations. It demands that in parts engineering as well as in systems engineering, certain interface decisions are postponed to a rather late point in time. This is only permissible, though, if other aspects are very precisely specified. Having the right model of specification of both, the target (system) and source (component) will substantially aid the retrieval and integration problem. This article argues for a layered approach towards system specification. It will show, how relational specifications will help system designers not to bind themselves too early into premature decisions and how designs aiming for heavy reuse can grow by stepwise enriching specifications.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01975517
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