CHARACTERIZATION OF REUSABLE SOFTWARE COMPONENTS FOR BETTER REUSE

Anshul Kalia, Sumesh Sood

Abstract: The reusable software components can be defined in several ways. The reusable software components possess a distinct functionality that does not affect the functionality of other components. It has also been specified precisely that for what the component reuse stands for and for what the component reuse does not stands for. It is required to characterize the components for better reuse. Characterization describes the features and characteristics of components. Distinct components show distinct characteristics in different domains of their usage and in different operating environments. The components can be classified on the basis of features it have, that facilitates with the better usage, better retrieval, better understanding and better cataloguing. Through component classification one gets the assurance of selecting right component and it suggests various ways in which a component can be reused. The paper explains for the need of characterization which ultimately is reflected from the above stated fact. It also provides with the criteria to characterize the reusable components. The criterion is laid down while keeping in mind the general specifications and formal specifications. These specifications in one way determine the feasibility of a reusable component at the initial level. The general and formal specifications depict the internal and external characteristics which play a significant role in the identification, selection, adoption and implementation of components in a particular application development. Specifications will tell the true character of a reusable component that helps to outline the required components. It also discusses the influence of characterization that it puts on the reuse of reusable components.

Keywords: Component characterization, Repository, Cataloguing, Specifications.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15623/ijret.2014.0305107