Viewpoints on viewpoints

Abstract

This paper expresses the viewpoints, or opinions of the author on the use of viewpoints in the software development process. I will concentrate most of my attention on requirements engineering, but I also treat the topic in the broader environment of software development. I will state without much justification, besides the presentation itself, key concepts that I believe are the basics for the use of viewpoints. I classify viewpoint research in three areas: opinions, specifications and services, each of which is described in detail. I conclude listing topics in need for further research.