Software reuse

About this book

Software reuse expert Ronald J. Leach has written the complete guide to this emerging strategy, drawn from years of research and hands-on practice. After providing an overview of the process, complete with pros and cons, he focuses on areas of chief concern to the typical software engineer: reuse techniques proven to work successfully without major investments in new software methodology, and crucial cost estimation issues. Furthermore, this unique guide is based on experiences with rapidly changing or dynamic software environments, as opposed to stable models. Dr. Leach addresses other "real world" situations as well: how to integrate commercial off-the-shelf software (COTS) into systematic reuse programs, and how to reengineer software to improve maintainability. Case studies shed light on these practical considerations. Software Reuse introduces you to several essential object-oriented techniques, the use of metrics, and the importance of standards. It concentrates on domain analysis - the application of systems engineering principles to the determination of common components in an organization's collection of software artifacts. You'll investigate reuse for such artifacts as source code modules, requirements, designs, documentation, user manuals, test plans, test cases, and installation guides. As the premier book defining the methods, tools, and tradeoffs of this growing process, Software Reuse will be indispensable for professionals and students alike.