A framework for a low-cost, process-driven software engineering environment

While automated environments that support the development of software systems are currently available, they have all been targeted toward large team programs. These programs have the budgets and specialized manpower available to both afford and integrate these complex environments.; This research investigated the feasibility of creating a framework for a process-driven Software Engineering Environment (SEE) that is targeted toward small team development efforts. Not only do smaller programs not have the volume of artifacts that a typical large project does, but they typically have limited resources (manpower and money) and don't have the specialized knowledge required to support complex environments. Therefore, this framework is inexpensive and simple to implement and maintain.; The approach taken to accomplish this research was to base the SEE on a minimalist approach to data integration and to provide automated process support. Instead of keeping track of every scrap of information in a central repository, the locations and associated information about user-defined components are stored. This allows an on-demand retrieval system for the level of information that the users have deemed necessary. Process support is provided based upon information within the project schedule. Automation is accomplished by using a common application programming interface throughout the framework and all tools composing the SEE.; Initially, the SEE was evaluated by the development of schemas, state-transition diagrams, and/or models. Once the analytical description of the system was accepted, a prototype system was built. This prototype was analyzed to determine the projected cost and complexity of the final system.