Few useful considerations for maintaining software components and component-based systems

ABSTRACT

Component-Based Systems (CBS) maintenance may require several activities different than normal applications, such as upgrading the functionality of black-box components (for which code may not be available), replacement of older version components with the new ones for better and improved functionality, tracing the problem of compatibility between the new components with system, and so on. The focus of this paper is on investigating several issues and concerns about maintainability of component-based systems. It also explores the acceptance of maintainability characteristics and sub-characteristics as defined in ISO9126 quality model for CBS. The paper proposes two new sub-characteristics, namely trackability and portability, to be included under the maintenance activity.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.6 MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
      K.6.3 Software Management

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
        D.2.13 Reusable Software
      D.2.7 Distribution, Maintenance, and Enhancement

General Terms:
Design, Management

Keywords:
ISO9126, component-based systems, components, maintainability