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ArchHypo: Managing Software Architecture Uncertainty Using Hypotheses Engineering

delete2025-02-01
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OA
AI
K
Kelson Silva
J
Jorge Melegati *
F
Fábio Fagundes Silveira
王小凤 cover
王小凤 (Xiaofeng Wang)
M
Maurício Ferreira
E
Eduardo Guerra
DOI:10.1109/TSE.2024.3520477delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Uncertainty is present in software architecture decisions due to a lack of knowledge about the requirements and the solutions involved. However, this uncertainty is usually not made explicit, and decisions can be made based on unproven premises or false assumptions. This paper focuses on a technique called ArchHypo that uses hypotheses engineering to manage uncertainties related to software architecture. It proposes formulating a technical plan based on each hypothesis' assessment, incorporating measures able to mitigate its impact and reduce uncertainty. To evaluate the proposed technique, this paper reports an application of the technique in a mission-critical project that faced several technical challenges. Conclusions were based on data extracted from the project documentation and a questionnaire answered by all team members. As a result, the application of ArchHypo provided a structured approach to dividing the architectural work through iterations, which facilitated architectural decision-making. However, further research is needed to fully understand its impact across different contexts. On the other hand, the team identified the learning curve and process adjustments required for ArchHypo's adoption as significant challenges that could hinder its widespread adoption. In conclusion, the evidence found in this study indicates that the technique has the potential to provide a suitable way to manage the uncertainties related to software architecture, facilitating the strategic postponement of decisions while addressing their potential impact.
Keywords:
Computer architecture
Software
Software architecture
Uncertainty
Codes
Decision making
Testing
Business
Systematics
Requirements engineering
Hypotheses engineering
software architecture
handling uncertainty

Journal

IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering cover
IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering
IF:
5.6
Papers:
2.8K
Citations:
1.1W

Organization

U
universidade federal de sao paulo (unifesp)
Scholars:
2.3W
Papers: 1.3W
Citations: 12
F
Free University of Bozen-Bolzano
Scholars:
2.7K
Papers: 2.6K
Citations: 6
I
instituto nacional de pesquisas espaciais (inpe)
Scholars:
3.0K
Papers: 2.1K
Citations: 3
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