A goal-oriented approach for representing and using design patterns

Abstract

Design patterns are known as proven solutions to recurring design problems. The role of pattern documentation format is to transfer experience thus making pattern employment a viable technique. This research line proposes a goal-oriented pattern documentation that highlights decision-relevant information. The contribution of this paper is twofold. First, it presents a semi-structural visual notation that visualizes context, forces, alternative solutions and consequences in a compact format. Second, it introduces a systematic reuse process, in which the use of goal-oriented patterns aids the practitioner in selecting and customizing design patterns. An empirical study has been conducted the results of which supports the hypothesis that the goal-oriented format provides benefits for the practitioner. The experiment revealed a trend in which solutions better address requirements when the subjects are equipped with the new pattern documentation.