An event-based technique to trace requirements modeled with SysML

Abstract

Changes in requirements occur throughout the software process, from requirements elicitation and analysis through the operation of software. Requirements traceability makes it possible to identify the origin and the dependence of software requirements. Studies show that the tools and current requirements traceability methods are inadequate and hamper the practical use of traceability. In this work, we propose an event-based technique for tracing requirements modeled with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). A software tool is developed to support this approach. Whenever a requirement is changed, the tool provides automatic communication with stakeholders. The tool is evaluated by information technology professionals using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) model that encompasses the concepts of Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and Perceived Usage (PUE). As a result, we observed a high acceptance of the technique and associated tool.