High-level, three-pronged design methodology for N-CHIME interface system software

Abstract

To enable users of the Hierarchical Simulation Language (HSL) to take full advantage of that software and its supportive tools, an interface system, called N-CHIME, was designed and implemented. It takes into account the capabilities and constraints of the user, the interface software/hardware, and the applications software. The paper provides a guided tour through the software design methodology that was developed. It represents a study of techniques for tailoring interface software for industrial use. Methodological steps are illustrated through the N-CHIME case study. Design principles and factors applicable to each of the three major system prongs are outlined. A high-level graph of user-visible states encapsulates the functionality available to the user at each point of a session. The object-oriented software architecture that accommodates those user states is an extension of the user interface management system model. The paper emphasizes the importance of defining a well structured, comprehensive design process and of ensuring designer accountability through recordings of the rationale behind each design decision.