Method for defining conceptual classes in the description of use cases

Abstract

A method for creating conceptual classes at the stage of forming requirements for the development of a software product is proposed. Conceptual classes are formed simultaneously with the creation of a textual description of the use case, basing on the obtained earlier information about the executors and the list of use cases. The studies were carried out on the basis of the previously proposed classification of scenarios for use cases. Mathematical models of the use case and conceptual class are proposed. The definition of a conceptual class involves defining the class name, class data (variables), and class methods. In the process of constructing conceptual classes the connection of each element of the class structure with the use case is established by forming references to it and the number of the corresponding scenario item. In accordance with the proposed mathematical models, algorithms have been developed and the software product UseCaseEditorV3 has been created. The conducted experiments showed a significant reduction in time and a decrease in the number of errors in the application of the proposed method.