Formalizing rework in software processes

Abstract

This paper indicates how effective software-process programming languages can lead to improved understandings of critical software processes, as well as improved process performance. In this paper we study the commonly mentioned, but seldom defined, rework process. We note that rework is generally understood to be a major software development activity, but note that it is poorly defined and understood. In this paper we use the vehicle of software-process programming to elucidate the nature of this type of process. In doing so we demonstrate that an effective language (i.e. one incorporating appropriate semantic features) can help explain the nature of rework, and also raise hopes that this type of process can be expedited through execution of the defined process. The paper demonstrates the key role played in effective rework definition by such semantic features as procedure invocation, scoping, exception management, and resource management, which are commonly found in programming languages. A more ambitious program of research into the most useful process-programming language semantic features is then suggested. The goal of this work is improved languages, for improved understandings of software processes, and improved support for software development. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2003.