SPLGraph: towards a graph-based formalism for software product lines

Abstract

This paper presents SPLGraph a graph-based model for Software Product Lines, including (1) a formal definition; (2) an algorithm that applies configuration decisions to an SPLGraph thus yielding a product specific graph; (3) a set of patterns for typical SPLGraph structures, such as Boolean operators, reuse of expressions, named configurations, optional and alternative features and staged configuration; and (4) an algorithm that infers product configuration per a variability point. SPLGraph is generic, simple, and self sustaining in the sense that an SPLGraph instance can apply variability to itself. These properties make SPLGraph a basis for a solid and complete formalism for Software Product Lines.