The Toolpack/IST approach to extensibility in software environments

Abstract

Toolpack is an experimental activity in which a large software tool environment is being created for the purpose of general distribution and then careful study and analysis. This paper discusses the goals, methods. architecture and design of the software system being produced as the focus of the Toolpack project. The paper begins by explaining the motivation for building integrated tool sets. It then explains the basic requirements that an integrated system of tools must satisfy in order to be successful and to remain useful both in practice and as an experimental object. The paper then presents a careful description of the actual architecture of the Toolpack integrated tool system. Finally the Toolpack project experimental plan is presented.