A Decision-Based Methodology for Object Oriented-Design
Abstract
The task of object-oriented development raises a new set of design problems. Specifically: how to scope a problem based on objects rather than functions; how to select the best objects; how to encapsulate data structures with the right set of operations; and when to stop decomposing a system into objects and begin describing the algorithms that implement those objects' behaviors. The difficulty of making these decisions increased when the requirements documentation was not developed with an object-oriented paradigm in mind. Although several software development environments implement an object- oriented design methodology, they seem concerned primarily with programming in the small activities, or with providing capabilities for capturing, representing, and storing design decisions once they are made. Recognizing the importance of supporting design decision making, this study focused on the application of decision support system concepts to formulating a methodology for object-oriented design. This thesis describes an object-oriented design methodology based on the four problems or decisions stated above. An object model structure is also defined to provide a foundation for organizing design information. The object model is described by a set of database relations, and includes a three view graphic representation providing block, detail and control flow graphs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 16, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA202579
Entities
People
- Patrick D. Barnes
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology