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ABSTRACT

Feature refactoring is the process of decomposing a program into aset of modules, called features, that encapsulate increments in program functionality. Different compositions of features yield different programs. As programs are defined using multiple representations, such as code, makefiles, and documentation, feature refactoring requires all representations to be factored. Thus, composing features produces consistent representations of code, make files, documentation, etc. for a target program. We present acase study of feature refactoring a substantial tool suite that usesmultiple representations. We describe the key technical problems encountered, and sketch the tool support needed for simplifying such refactorings in the future.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.7 Distribution, Maintenance, and Enhancement
          Subjects: Restructuring, reverse engineering, and reengineering

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
        D.2.13 Reusable Software
            Subjects: Domain engineering

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.2 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
      I.2.2 Automatic Programming
          Subjects: Program synthesis

General Terms:
Design, Experimentation

Keywords:
AHEAD, feature-oriented programming, multiple representations, program synthesis, refactoring, refinements, software product lines