Change Awareness in Software Engineering Using Two Dimensional Graphical Design and Development Tools

Tam, J., McCaffrey, L, Maurer, F. and Greenberg, S.
Department of Computer Science
University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta,
Canada T2N 1N4

Cite as:: Tam, J., McCaffrey, L, Maurer, F. and Greenberg, S. (2000) Change Awareness in Software Engineering Using Two Dimensional Graphical Design and Development Tools. Report 2000-670-22, Department of Computer Science, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, October.

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss several display mechanisms for representing changes in the UML (Unified Modeling Language) class diagrams: animated replays, storyboards, iconic representations and a documentation method. These display mechanisms were implemented in a prototype UML editor. We present the results of an empirical interface refinement study that was conducted to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the four change display mechanisms. The results show some preference for the symbolic presentation of changes, specifically that most study participants liked the documentation method best. Qualitative result summaries are given for documentation and the other mechanisms.

Keywords: Change Awareness, UML design, groupware.