Software Reuse Guidelines,

Abstract

Abstract : Guidelines for U.S. Army development groups undertaking software reuse are provided, and reuse-related issues discussed pertaining to DOD and other government contracting and funding approaches. The material is also pertinent to any organization engaged in the development and maintenance of large software systems. Problems in software productivity and quality are discussed along with what reuse can achieve. Reuse research and practices are summarized. Managerial and technical reuse issues are discussed including existing impediments to reuse and their resolutions and the creation of incentives for reuse. Instituting a software development and maintenance process incorporating reuse is emphasized. Discussion is provided in specific technical issues of domain analysis, preparing reusable components (spanning the entire software life cycle), assuring component quality, and classifying and storing components. Specific guidelines are provided for developing Ada code modules for reuse. Operational issues in software reuse are considered, including searching, retrieving, understanding, assessing, adapting, and assembling components. Tools and environment for software reuse are also discussed. A phased approach is suggested for implementing a software reuse program. This should help to keep risk manageable, develop necessary skills, and demonstrate the viability of reuse.