The Effects of the Symbology and Spatial Arrangement of Software Specifications in a Coding Task.
Abstract
This report describes the second in a series of experiments to evaluate the effects of the format of software specifications on programmer performance. The current experiment examined performance on a coding task. Thirty-six professional programmers were presented with specifications for each of three modular-sized programs. Nine different specification formats were prepared for each program. These formats varied along two dimensions: type of symbology and spatial arrangement. The type of symbology included natural language, constrained language (PDL), and ideograms (flowchart symbols). The spatial arrangement included sequential (vertical flow), branching (flowchart), and hierarchical (tree-like). Working from the specifications, the participants constructed a section of code at the middle of each program. These sections contained about fifteen lines and included the most complex decision structures present in the programs. The participants were instructed to complete the code, using a text editor. When satisfied that the program would perform correctly, they submitted it for a compilation and run. If the compilation was unsuccessful or the program did not run correctly, the participants were asked to correct the errors and submit the run again.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA097029
Entities
People
- Elizabeth Kruesi
- Sylvia B. Sheppard
Organizations
- General Electric