Extending data-driven model of software with software change request service

ABSTRACT The dynamics of enterprise processes requires software systems that can easily change and adapt to new conditions. Effective maintenance of these software systems requires development of methods and tools for reducing maintenance costs and efforts, which increases the quality of software systems and efficiency of supported enterprise processes. In order to integrate maintenance support in existing software systems, a novel approach for extending a model of data-driven software systems with a software change request service is proposed. The approach includes modeling extensible software architecture with the focus on: data-driven organization of software, user interface that follows data structure, software change request service, and initial change impact set. The approach was verified through the implementation in a university environment. A qualitative exploratory study aimed at discovering advantages and disadvantages of the service, and identifying possible improvements was conducted with students. Despite identified advantages of integrated service, the authors are aware that the main limitation of the presented research is the lack of implementation in enterprise software systems. The challenges in implementing and validating the approach in enterprise software systems in the cases of developing new software systems or reengineering existing ones are outlined.