Publications

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The Concept of Change in XP: Popper vs Kuhn
Mandy Northover 2006 - Conference Presentation
FASTAR/Espressso NetWorkshop 2006

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Formal Enhancement of UML Use Case Diagrams
Stefan Gruner 2006 - Conference Presentation
FASTAR/Espressso NetWorkshop 2006

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Use Case Meta-Model
Karel van der Walt 2006 - Conference Presentation
FASTAR/Espressso NetWorkshop 2006

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Open Source Software and Software Engineering
Morkel Theunissen 2006 - Conference Presentation
FASTAR/Espressso NetWorkshop 2006

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T(h)ree taxonomies and a toolkit
Loek Cleopas 2006 - Conference Presentation
FASTAR/Espressso NetWorkshop 2006

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Refactoring Tools and Complementary Techniques
Martin Drozdz, Derrick G Kourie, Bruce W Watson, Andrew Boake 2006 - Conference Paper
AICSSA 2006
(show/hide) Abstract
Poorly designed software systems are difficult to understand and maintain. Modifying code in one place could lead to unwanted repercussions elsewhere due to high coupling. Adding new features can cause further quality degradation to the code if proper design and architectural concerns were not implemented. Development in a large enterprise system with such attributes will, over time, lead to a myriad of concerns unless the system is periodically overhauled or refactored in some way. Refactoring can aid the developer to improve the design of the code and to make it cleaner, without changing its behaviour. This study provides answers for some of the questions on refactoring. A refactoring tool survey is given. The IDEs surveyed include some of the most popular commercial and open source offerings from IntelliJ?s IDEA, IBM?s Eclipse and Sun?s Netbeans. We also explain a way to automatically find targets for refactorings via automatic detection of code smells from static code analysis. Concerns on viewing compiler refactorings as a fully automated refactorings are raised. We will perform a critical evaluation of refactoring by surveying these tools.

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Report: IFIP TC2 Summer School
Andrew Boake, SystemicLogic and Espresso Research Group, University of Pretoria 2006 - Technical Report

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An Algorithm for Navigational Supervision of Asynchronous Interfaces
Linda Marshall 2005 - Conference Presentation
Espresso Workshop 2005

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The general process of TABASCO
Bart Seghers 2005 - Conference Presentation
Espresso Workshop 2005

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Object-Oriented Databases and Object Relational Mapping Tools in the Persistence Layer
Pieter Van Zyl 2005 - Conference Presentation

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Characterization of Finite Automata Implementations: A Preliminary Taxonomy
E. Ketcha Ngassam, Bruce W. Watson and Derrick G. Kourie 2005 - Conference Presentation
Espresso Workshop 2005

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Towards Surface Image Based Vehicle Tracking
Fritz Venter 2005 - Conference Presentation
Espresso Workshop 2005

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Towards a SPEM definition of XP
Judith Kennes 2005 - Conference Presentation
Espresso Workshop 2005

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Software Development in the Converging Telecommunications World
WHM Theunissen, A Boake and DG Kourie 2005 - Conference Paper
SATNAC 2005
(show/hide) Abstract
Telecommunication technology is increasingly converging towards software-intensive solutions. As the role of software increases, it naturally follows that traditional software development procedures need to be reassessed. In South Africa, this need is especially urgent because of recent legislation that presages an increase in the number of competitors. This paper assesses two important contemporary software development approaches - namely agile and open source - and their relationship to one another. A variant of open source software development that is highlighted, is Hewlett-Packard's so-called 'Progressive Open Source'. This is because it is specifically tailored to corporate use. The benefits and disadvantages of adopting the various development methods are assessed. Guidelines based on project characteristics are provided to indicate when each of the respective approaches should be considered.

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Object Oriented Databases vs. ORM Tools
Pieter van Zyl, Andrew Boake and Derrick Kourie 2005 - Conference Poster
SAICSIT 2005

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TABASCO: a Taxonomy-based Domain Engineering Method
Loek Cleophas, Iwan Vosloo and Bruce W. Watson 2005 - Conference Poster
Jacquard 2005

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Open Source and Agile Software Development in Corporates: A Contradiction or An Opportunity?
WH Morkel Theunissen, Andrew Boake and Derrick G Kourie 2005 - Conference Poster
Jacquard 2005

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Tools in a Development Process
Gertjan Zwartjes, Joost van Geffen and Bruce W. Watson 2005 - Conference Poster
Jacquard 2005

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Towards Proving Preservation of Behaviour of Refactoring of UML Models
Marc van Kempen, Michel Chaudron, Derrick Kourie and Andrew Boake 2005 - Conference Poster
Jacquard 2005

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An Agile Approach Supported by a Tool Environment for the Development of Software Components
Gertjan Zwartjes and Joost van Geffen 2005 - Masters Dissertation
(show/hide) Abstract
A rigorous software engineering methodology, applied in the development of software components, causes overhead costs, for example, by over-documenting. The alternative is to use an agile approach, to reduce overhead, caused by process-centered tasks. The advantages and disadvantages of rigorous and agile approaches are analyzed, and criteria to choose between them are introduced. As a solution, this dissertation proposes an agile process for the development of software components. The importance of tools and their relation with a process are discussed. Software development tools may contribute greatly to the success of a project, and may provide critical support for a software engineering process. Therefore the selected set of tools in a development process is essential. The selection process must be transparent and carried out with care. An approach that may be followed to select a tool environment is proposed. The results of case studies, where the approach is retrospectively applied, confirm the importance of tool selection. A set of tools is selected for the tool environment to support the component development process. It is not always the case that the needed tools can be selected out of an existing set. The practical work that was needed to custom develop two tools an automated build system and code documenting tool is described. The results of applying the proposed process to several projects are discussed, as well as interviews with the responsible developers. Evidence is presented, showing that both the proposed process and the tool environment chosen, reduce project overhead and cost.

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Studies into Software Architecture Refactorings
Marc van Kempen 2005 - Masters Presentation

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TABASCO: a Taxonomy-based Domain Engineering Method
Loek Cleophas, Bruce W. Watson, Derrick G. Kourie and Andrew Boake 2005 - Conference Paper
SAICSIT 2005
(show/hide) Abstract
We discuss TABASCO, a method for constructing Domain-Specific Toolkits (DSTs). We present TABASCO in the context of domain engineering and generative programming. We discuss the steps of TABASCO in detail, with a focus on the software construction side, giving examples based on actual applications of the method. In doing so, we show that TABASCO is a domain engineering method aimed at a particular kind of software domain, and how this method is applied in practice.

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In Search of the Sweet Spot: Agile Open Collaborative Corporate Software Development
W.H. Morkel Theunissen, Andrew Boake and Derrik G. Kourie 2005 - Conference Paper
SAICSIT 2005
(show/hide) Abstract
Corporate software developers are faced with many difficulties. Development windows are decreasing; scale and complexity are increasing; business requirements are vague and changing; and the underlying technology moves ever on. Agile metho ds have emerged as leading contenders to tame these challenges. Small teams, face-to-face communication, an emphasis on simplicity and a selection of development b est practices contribute to software development which is relevant, yet fast and ﬂexible. At the same time, Open Source Software is increasingly providing infrastructure, tools and comp onents to companies. Progressive development teams are beginning to work in more open, collaborative, and distributed ways. In some respects these practices are similar to agile practices, but in important ways, very different. Yet, both are important and offer unique benefits. This paper discusses the prospects of combining the two in the context of corporate software development, and the approach we suggest to do this.

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Towards Proving Preservation of Behaviour of Refactoring of UML Models
Marc Van Kempen, Michel Chaudron, Derrik Kourie, Andrew Boake 2005 - Conference Paper
SAICSIT 2005
(show/hide) Abstract
Refactoring of a design before updating and modifying software has become an accepted practice in order to prepare the design for the up coming changes. This paper describes a refactoring of the design of a particular application to illustrate a suggested approach. In this approach, we represent the design using UML, more specifically the structure using class diagrams, and the behaviour of each class using statecharts. Examining metrics of the specific design, we suggest a refactoring that changes a centralized control structure into one that employs more delegation, showing the refactored class and statechart diagrams. As preserving behaviour is one of the defining attributes of a refactoring, we use a csp-based formalism to describe the refactoring, and show that the refactoring indeed preserves behaviour.

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Design of a High Resolution Soft Real-Time Timer under a Win32 Operating
Janno Grobbler and Derrick Kourie 2005 - Conference Paper
SAICSIT 2005
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This article defines a real-time timer, and shows that a Win32 PC operating system does not provide a timer that fits this definition. Without a real-time timer, a true hard real-time system cannot be implemented. Not withstanding this, some companies, including Microsoft itself, provide real-time extensions to the Win32 PC platform, enabling the development of real-time implementations. Bearing this in mind, a solution is presented in which a workaround is found for the shortcomings of the timers provided Win32 PC platform, without looking to real-time extensions as the solution. Also considered is the question of whether the workaround offered here is likely to be compatible with expected advances in future Central Processing Unit (CPU) technologies.

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Open Source and Agile Software Development in Corporates: A Contradiction or An Opportunity?
WH Morkel Theunissen, Andrew Boake and Derrick G Kourie 2004 - Conference Paper
Jacquard 2005
(show/hide) Abstract
Currently the software industry is facing two phenomena that are challenging the dominance of traditional approaches to developing software, namely agile software development (ASD) and open source software (OSS) development. Each have the potential to provide certain benefits to various software development efforts. However, although they are compatible in some respects, they are also contradictory in other ways. This poses an awkward dilemma for institutions that wish to exploit the benefits of both. This paper investigates the tensions between the two phenomena and deeper challenges in bridging the gap between them.

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A Case for Contemporary Literate Programming
V Pieterse, DG Kourie and A Boake 2004 - Conference Presentation
South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists (Stellenbosch, 6 October 2004)
(show/hide) Abstract
The presentation of the associated paper.

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Why should we as software engineers concern ourselves about Open Source software?
A Boake 2004 - Conference Presentation
Empowering South Africa with Open Source seminar (Balilaika Hotel in Sandton, 15 September 2004)

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A Case for Contemporary Literate Programming
V Pieterse, DG Kourie and A Boake 2004 - Conference Paper
Proceedings of the South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists (SAICSIT) Conference 2004 (Stellenbosch, 5th - 6th October)
(show/hide) Abstract
In this paper we discuss the characteristics of Literate Programming and the development of programming environments to support Literate Programming in the past two decades. We argue that recent technological developments allow Literate Programming to be re-introduced as a viable approach to improve the quality and consistency of software artefacts.

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A Preliminary Investigation of the Impact of Open Source Software on Telecommunication Software Development
WHM Theunissen, A Boake and DG Kourie 2004 - Conference Paper
Southern African Telecommunication Networks & Applications Conference (SATNAC) 2004
(show/hide) Abstract
Open Source Software (OSS) adoption has increased significantly over the past decade. Its importance is evidenced by the extent to which it has been embraced by companies such as IBM, HP and Novell. The influence that this trend is likely to have on large corporations warrants an a full investigation. This paper begins that process, the focus being primarily on the current and projected impact of OSS on the telecommunication industry. Various telecommunication-specific OSS projects are discussed. In particular, the paper explores the possible effects that the adoption of OSS may have on current software development approaches. These preliminary investigations point to the need for a much wider one. The goals for such a more detailed study are identified.


A Taxonomy of Directed Graph Representations
Gabor Barla-Szabo, Bruce W. Watson, DG Kourie 2004 - Journal
IEE Proceedings - Software, Vol. 151, No. 6, December 2004
(show/hide) Abstract
A taxonomy of edge-labeled directed graphs is presented. The taxonomy is the result of the systematic categorization of methods for representing sets, maps and so-called arrows. These constitute the basic components of an edge-labeled directed graph and their categorization leads, in turn, to the taxonomy of such graphs.


Literate Programming to Enhance Agile Methods
V Pieterse, DG Kourie and A Boake 2004 - Conference Poster
Fifth International Conference on Extreme Programming and Agile Processes in Software Engineering (Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, June 6-10, 2004)

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Industry Experience in Using an Abstract Model to Select Software Development Tools
Gertjan Zwartjes, Joost van Geffen, Derrick G. Kourie, Andrew Boake, and Bruce W. Watson 2004 - Technical Report
(show/hide) Abstract
Experience shows that it is difficult to select, from an ever-widening set of software tools, those appropriate for a given project. Complicating the choice beyond mere vendor selection is a proliferation of Open Source offerings. An abstract model is proposed to assist in this selection process. In this model, generic elements of a rational decision making process are identified. The model is realized in a matrix in which rows represent tools and columns represent tool properties. This tool matrix is developed iteratively, starting off with an initial attempt to articulate those tool properties perceived to be important in the project. The criticality of each property is also estimated. This information constitutes the column headings. Tools described in available information sources constitute the rows, with their compliance to the required properties indicated in the appropriate cells of the matrix. Rows are grouped together in functional categories - e.g. version systems, modeling tools, etc. Columns are grouped in terms of properties typically associated with a given functional category. The result is a visual representation of the extent to which identified tools meet properties. This serves as a basis for selecting one or more tools to meet the desired requirements. Iteration of the model consists of evaluating the coverage of these requirements, refinement of properties and trade off between alternatives. Experience in using the model in a number of industrial contexts is discussed. The case studies show that the process forces one to consider as many alternatives and prerequisites as are necessary, and to systematically make your reasoning explicit. This experience leads to the conclusion that the discipline demanded to construct the model has rational decisions as its payoff, sed on well-assimilated information summarized in the tool matrix.

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Single location object-oriented software development
MM Ross, DG Kourie and RJ van den Heever 2004 - Journal
Transactions of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) - Dec 2004 (Vol 95 No 4)
(show/hide) Abstract
A constructive approach to software development is proposed in which correctness reasoning forms an integral part of the analysis, design and implementation phases. A computational model adapted from UNITY for an object-oriented paradigm simplifies the correctness reasoning process. A small example demonstrates the method's emphasis on correctness properties and the role played by these properties. The object-oriented nature of the method promotes reusability, extensibility and encapsulation. A primary objective is to offer ordinary software practitioners a more rigorous approach towards software development without requiring an in-depth understanding of the underlying mathematics. The specification notation will map to a wide range of OO languages. Here the focus is on Java. Suitable for developing concurrent or distributed systems, the method enables the user to abstract away from the target architectural details until the implementation phase.

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Industry experience in using an abstract model to select software development tools
G Zwartjes, JV Geffen, DG Kourie, A Boake and BW Watson 2004 - Journal
Transactions of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) - Dec 2004 (Vol 95 No 4)
(show/hide) Abstract
Experience shows that it is difficult to select, from an ever-widening set of software tools, those appropriate for a given project. Complicating the choice beyond mere vendor selection is a proliferation of open source offerings. An abstract model is proposed to assist in this selection process. In this model, generic elements of a rational decision making process are identified. The model is realized in a matrix in which rows represent tools and columns represent tool properties. This tool matrix is developed iteratively, starting off with an initial attempt to articulate those tool properties perceived to be important in the project. The criticality of each property is also estimated. This information constitutes the column headings. Tools described in available information sources constitute the rows, with their compliance to the required properties indicated in the appropriate cells of the matrix. Rows are grouped together in functional categories – e.g. version systems, modeling tools, etc. Columns are grouped in terms of properties typically associated with a given functional category. The result is a visual representation of the extent to which identified tools meet properties. This serves as a basis for selecting one or more tools to meet the desired requirements. Iteration of the model consists of evaluating the coverage of these requirements, refinement of properties and trade off between alternatives. Experience in using the model in a number of industrial contexts is discussed. The case studies show that the process forces one to consider as many alternatives and prerequisites as are necessary, and to systematically make ones reasoning explicit. This experience leads to the conclusion that the discipline demanded to construct the model has rational decisions as its payoff, based on well-assimilated information summarized in the tool matrix.

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Standards and Agile Software Development
WH Morkel Theunissen, Derrick G Kourie and Bruce W Watson 2003 - Conference Paper
South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists (Fourways, 18 September October 2003)
(show/hide) Abstract
This paper investigates the adaptability of agile methodologies to software development standards laid down by ISO. On the basis of this analysis, guidelines are proposed for developing software in such a way that the development process conforms to the standards required by the software acquirer, while still retaining its agile characteristics. Extreme Programming (XP) is used as the primary representative of the various agile methodologies.

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Combining Theory and Practice to Enhance the Effectiveness and Efficiency of the Software Process
DG Kourie 2001 - Conference Paper
Sixth Intel EMEA Academic Forum (Istanbul, September 2001)