Profiler instrumentation using metaprogramming techniques

ABSTRACT

Software developers are frequently required to address evolving stakeholder concerns, which often result in changes to the source code of an application. Manually performing invasive modifications across a large code base can be tedious, time consuming, and error prone. Metaprogramming techniques assist a developer in specifying the changes needed to an application in a manner that does not require manual adaptation of source files. Various forms of metaprogramming exist, including compile-time metaobjects, load-time structural reflection, and aspect-oriented programming. In this paper, a profiler is implemented as a common case study using three different approaches to demonstrate the various mechanisms and benefits offered by metaprogramming.

REFERENCES

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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.2.3 Coding Tools and Techniques

General Terms:
Design