Code reusability in the large versus code reusability in the small

ABSTRACT

As a general rule, the goals of software engineering involve the development of techniques for improving software development productivity. It is no surprise, then, that a lot of attention has been focused on facilitating the reuse of program code. However, most of this attention has been directed with only shortsighted and self-supporting goals, and has thus condemned code reuse techniques to limited areas of success. This paper brings to light some of the issues involving code reusability, which include technical, social, economic, and psychological considerations. Code reusability "in the large" is contrasted with code reusability "in the small," and methods for improving code reusability are examined.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

General Terms:
Documentation, Management