Software analysis process-which order of activities, is preferred? An experimental comparison using FOOM methodology

J. Kabeli, P. Shoval

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Data modelling and functional modelling are two main activities of the analysis process. Traditional development methodologies usually emphasize functional modelling via dataflow diagrams (DFDs), while object-oriented (OO) methodologies emphasize data modelling via class diagrams. UML includes various techniques for both data (structure) and functional (behavior) modelling which can be utilized in various ways. In fact, different methodologies utilize data modelling and process modelling techniques in different ways and orders. We concerned with the ordering of modelling activities in the analysis stage. Our main question is if it is better to create first a functional model and then a data model, or vice versa? We conduct a comparative experiment in which the two opposing orders are examined. We use the FOOM methodology as a platform for the experiment as it enables the production of both a functional model (hierarchical OO-DFDs) and a data model (an initial class diagram), which are synchronized. The results of the experiment reveal that an analysis process that begins with data modelling provides better products than one that begins with functional modelling.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings - IEEE International Conference on Software- Science, Technology and Engineering, SwSTE 2003
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Pages111-119
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)0769520472, 9780769520476
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2003
EventIEEE International Conference on Software- Science, Technology and Engineering, SwSTE 2003 - Herzlia, Israel
Duration: 4 Nov 20035 Nov 2003

Publication series

NameProceedings - IEEE International Conference on Software- Science, Technology and Engineering, SwSTE 2003

Conference

ConferenceIEEE International Conference on Software- Science, Technology and Engineering, SwSTE 2003
Country/TerritoryIsrael
CityHerzlia
Period4/11/035/11/03

Keywords

  • Data models
  • Data structures
  • Design for disassembly
  • Object oriented modeling
  • Production
  • Unified modeling language

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Science Applications
  • Software

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