Code from requirements: new productivity tools improve the reliability and maintainability of software systems

Abstract

Model driven architecture (MDA) has introduced a new paradigm for the software development process. In the MDA approach system requirements are specified in a formal language, most often the unified modeling language (UML), to form a platform independent model (PIM) of the system. A translation tool based on technology design patterns, transforms these specifications into a platform specific model (PSM) defined for the specific technology on which the system will be based. Then, using implementation design patterns, the PSM is transformed into the code model, which implements the system. Thus the system code is developed directly and automatically from the system requirements specification. The MDA approach was developed to enhance productivity and shorten the development cycle but it also gives significant improvements in software reliability. The process captures the best practices of the best developers; promotes a focus on solving the business problem; eliminates the incentives for programmers to take short-cuts; effects rapid application development, and promotes improved software maintenance practices.