LEV4REC: A feature-based approach to engineering RSSEs

Abstract

To facilitate the development of recommender systems for software engineering (RSSEs), this paper introduces LEV4REC, a model-driven approach supporting all RSSE development stages, from design to deployment. It enables parameter fine-tuning, enhancing the developer and user experience by using a dedicated feature model for early configuration. We evaluated LEV4REC by applying it to two existing RSSEs based on different algorithms.

Results demonstrate its ability to recreate suitable recommendations and outperform a state-of-the-art approach. Qualitative findings from a focus group study further validate LEV4REC’s effectiveness, while indicating the need for extension points to support additional systems.