A Methodology for Scenario-Based Requirements Exploration
Abstract
This thesis proposes a methodology for conducting requirements exploration based on the use of scenarios as a means for communication between a software system's user and designer. Requirements exploration is the process of determining what functions a user expects from a system and how the system should behave as it performs those functions. The effectiveness of this process has a large impact on the ultimate success of a software system. The proposed methodology reflects several key features associated with effective requirements exploration. The first of these is the parallel and iterative development of a high level design along with a set of system requirements. Because complex software systems are wicked problems, their requirements must be developed in light of possible solutions. A second feature is the use of scenarios as a basis for communication between users and designers. Due to their flexibility and informality, scenarios overcome some of the barriers associated with user designer dialogs. A third feature involves user and designers together considering provision designs. Such a process tends to uncover unstated, or clarify misunderstood, requirements. Finally, the methodology provides for an explicit linking between components of the design and the requirements that they satisfy. This ensures that attention is paid to all aspects of a problem as a design is formulated. To support this methodology, considerations for a hypertext based tool are also described. In general, hypertext systems provide a means for processing nonlinear text through the use of machine supported links. This capability supports the linking which is a fundamental component of the methodology's conceptual architecture.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA196198
Entities
People
- Hilliard B. Holbrook Iii
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology