Specification of Formalized Software Patterns for the Development of User Interfaces

The aim of this paper is the development of specifications for a general analysis model for user interface patterns that can be applied in a model-based user interface development process. To accomplish this, we compile a detailed definition of what user interface patterns are and how they can be classified. Furthermore, we analyze how available methods and notations can be used for a pattern application in user interface development, based on two exemplary applications of the pattern "Advanced Search" in the formal notations UIML and UsiXML. From the resulting possibilities and limitations in identification, selection, instantiation and integration of user interface patterns, we derive specifications for a sufficient pattern description and development integration method: an exact definition, a metamodel, a specialized language, and, in practice, a repository or pattern management software.