Documentation Production Under Next Generation Technologies

Nance, Richard E. and Keller, Benjamin J. and Boldery, Dave B. (1989) Documentation Production Under Next Generation Technologies. Technical Report TR-89-26, Computer Science, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Abstract

This paper describes the development of the Abstraction Refinement Model as a basis for linking the development and maintenance tasks in software systems. Documentation is critical in both efforts, and the reliance on development documentation during maintenance is characterized by the model and through a characterization of the development documentation requirement stipulated under DoD-STD-2167A. The Abstraction Refinement Model enables a coherent characterization of the reverse engineering requirements generally caused by a faulty or inadequately documented development process. Within the context of the model, the Automated Document Design System (ADDS) is characterized, and the system is evaluated with regard to its current capabilities versus future potential. A set of recommendations regarding ADDS concludes the report.