Two Novel Concepts for Systematic Product Line Development

Abstract

Framelets and implementation cases are new concepts to manage the complexity of product line development. Framelets are “small product lines” that address, as self-standing units, specific problems within the product line. A product line is obtained as a combination of framelets. Framelets simplify the development and extension of product lines, and make their integration with other product lines and with other software simpler. Implementation cases are introduced as ways to continuously monitor the adequacy of an evolving product line design. They describe an aspect of the product line instantiation process by specifying how an architectural feature for an application can be implemented using the constructs offered by the product line. This paper discusses the two concepts in the context of the design of a product line of on board satellite software. Heuristics for defining framelets and implementation cases derived from the experience are also discussed.