Analysis of crosscutting in early software development phases based on traceability

Abstract

Crosscutting is usually described in terms of scattering and tangling. However, the distinction between these three concepts is vague. Precise definitions are mandatory for certain research areas such as the identification of crosscutting concerns at phases of the software life cycle. We propose a conceptual framework for crosscutting where crosscutting is defined in terms of trace relations. The definition of crosscutting is formalized using linear algebra, and represented with matrices and matrix operations. In this way, crosscutting can be clearly distinguished from scattering and tangling. With this definition and transitivity of trace relations, crosscutting can be identified and traced through software development, also in early phases. We describe some illustrative case studies to demonstrate the applicability of the analysis. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.