Object database support for a software project management environment

Abstract

The recent development of object-oriented database models, which combine the power of object programming and the efficient management of data, provides a feasible solution for the construction of a computer-aided software engineering environment or CASE. However, an object oriented database provides only a kernel set of capabilities. This paper identifies the data management requirements related to software project management and shows how they are represented in the model called Design-Net. Then it is shown how the concepts of the work breakdown structure, project history, event monitoring, and re-initiation of tasks are realized in a specific object-oriented system. Limitations of existing object oriented database systems are identified, with respect to implementing these concepts. Based upon an actual prototype, recommendations are made for enhancing future object-oriented systems.