The use of integration tools in software maintenance

Abstract

The author presents his experiences related to the problem of supporting the evolution of software in the field of engineering and scientific applications. A class of tools, the integrators, is presented and the practical experience of their use, in enhancement and reengineering of existing systems, is described. The functions and the structure of two integration tools, GAIA and MI1, are presented. The basic concept of these tools is that integration is made through a model of the underlying software, implemented using an object-oriented technology. Experiences related to the use of these tools are described.<>