Addressing Uncertainty in Software Development: Designing and Evaluating Hypothesis-Driven Techniques for Agile Architecture Evolution

• Grant number: 23/14646-1
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: July 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Computer Science - Computer Systems
• Principal Investigator: Fábio Fagundes Silveira
• Grantee: Fábio Fagundes Silveira
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia (ICT). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São José dos Campos. São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Eduardo Martins Guerra ; Tiago Silva da Silva ; Xiaofeng Wang

Abstract

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, this research addresses the integration of architectural changes within agile software development practices, a significant challenge due to inherent uncertainties in software architecture. Despite the agile principle of embracing change, there is a noticeable reluctance towards architectural modifications, primarily due to perceived risks and uncertainties. This reluctance undermines the adaptability and sustainability of software projects in the face of emerging requirements and technological progress. The proposed solution, Arch-H, introduces an innovative technique based on hypothesis engineering designed to identify, evaluate, and manage uncertainties in the evolution of software architecture. This technique seeks to facilitate the seamless integration of architectural decisions into agile practices, thereby enhancing the resilience and adaptability of software systems. The proposed methodology includes the development of a systematic process for Arch-H, its empirical validation through case studies in diverse organizational settings, creating a comprehensive implementation model for agile environments. Expected outcomes include developing a validated method for agile architecture management, contributing to academic discussions on agile methodologies, and providing practical guidelines for practitioners. By bridging the gap between agile practices and architectural management, this research proposal attempts to advance the field of software engineering, proposing a novel approach to maintaining software architecture's adaptability and resilience within an agile context. Funding this effort will support the advancement of scientific knowledge and equip practitioners with essential tools for building more adaptable and sustainable software systems. (AU)

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

SILVA, KELSON; MELEGATI, JORGE; SILVEIRA, FABIO; WANG, XIAOFENG; FERREIRA, MAURICIO; GUERRA, EDUARDO. ArchHypo: Managing Software Architecture Uncertainty Using Hypotheses Engineering. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, v. 51, n. 2, p. 19-pg., 2025-02-01. (23/14646-1)