A framework for assessing object-oriented analysis methods

Abstract

Research into the literature of object-oriented analysis methods finds no evidence of any framework available which might provide a basis for understanding individual object-oriented analysis methods. In order to overcome this deficiency, we establish a framework which focuses on the analysis features of object-oriented methods as well as the logical connections among these features and which enables people to understand object-oriented analysis methods individually by assessing these methods in an objective and systematic way. The definition of the framework is based upon the study of object-oriented analysis methods available in a wide range. Four representative object-oriented analysis methods are in particular used in a specific application in the study in order to identify the generic features of object-oriented analysis methods. Two aspects (i.e., 'what' and 'how' aspects) of analysis methods are found to be fundamental in the methods and they are emphasised by this framework. The essential features of the methods are therefore identified and assessed upon the two aspects, by means of the framework. Furthermore a process including the approach and criteria is provided for managing the assessment of the methods. Ten object-oriented analysis methods available have been assessed individually using this framework. The processes of assessing five of the methods are shown in the thesis in detail, as the examples of applying the framework. In addition, the assessment of the other five methods is also outlined and included as it may be useful for people to understand these methods from different perspectives.