AUT Research Institutes, Centres and Networks

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AUT Research Institutes, Centres and Networks bring focus to research activity. The objectives are to:

Ensure that resources are concentrated in areas where AUT has capability

Be the key concentration of research activity

Provide an education, mentoring and training role for postgraduate students

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 597

Reliance on correlation data for complexity metric use and validation
(ACM, 1991-08) MacDonell, SG
This paper reports the results of an experiment to illustrate the hazards of using correlation data as the sole determinant for software metric use and validation. Three widely cited complexity metrics have been examined in relation to the frequency of software development errors.
Rigor in Software Complexity Measurement Experimentation
(Elsevier, 1991-10) MacDonell, Stephen Gerard
The lack of widespread industry acceptance of much of the research into the measurement of software complexity must be due at least in part to the lack of experimental rigor associated with many of the studies. This article examines 13 areas in which previous empirical problems have arisen, citing examples where appropriate, and provides recommendations regarding more adequate procedures.
Deriving relevant functional measures for automated development projects
(Elsevier, 1993-09) MacDonell, S
The increasing use of computer aided software engineering (CASE) tools, fourth-generation languages (4GLs) and other similar development automation techniques, has reduced the impact of implementation methods and individual ability on development task difficulty. It has therefore been suggested that measures derived from software specification representations may provide a consistent basis for relatively accurate estimation of subsequent development attributes. To this end, this paper describes the development of a functional complexity analysis scheme that is applicable to system specification products, rather than to the traditional products of the lower-level design and construction phases.
Assessing the Graphical and Algorithmic Structure of Hierarchical Coloured Petri Net Models
(Australian Computer Society Digital Library, 1994) MacDonell, Stephen Gerard; Benwell, GL
Petri nets, as a modelling formalism, are utilised for the analysis of processes, whether for explicit understanding, database design or business process re-engineering. The formalism, however, can be represented on a virtual continuum from highly graphical to largely algorithmic. The use and understanding of the formalism will, in part, therefore depend on the resultant complexity and power of the representation and, on the graphical or algorithmic preference of the user. This paper develops a metric which will indicate the graphical or algorithmic tendency of hierarchical coloured Pctri nets.
Comparative Review of Functional Complexity Assessment Methods for Effort Estimation
(IEEE, 1994-05) MacDonell, SG
Budgetary constraints are placing increasing pressure on project managers to effectively estimate development effort requirements at the earliest opportunity. With the rising impact of automation on commercial software development, the attention of researchers developing effort estimation models has recently been focused on functional representations of systems, in response to the assertion that development effort is a function of specification content. A number of such models exist; several, however, have received almost no research or industry attention. Project managers wishing to implement a functional assessment and estimation programme are therefore unlikely to be aware of the various methods or how they compare. This paper therefore provides this information, as well as forming a basis for the development and improvement of new methods
The kinematic synthesis of path generating mechanisms using genetic algorithms
(WIT Press, 1995) Connor, AM; Douglas, SS; Gilmartin, MJ; Rsevski, G; Adey, RA; Tasso, C
This paper presents a methodology for the synthesis of path generating mechanisms using Genetic Algorithms GAs). GAs are a novel search and optimisation technique inspired by the principles of natural evolution and survival of the fittest . The problem used to illustrate the use of GAs in this way is the synthesis of a four bar mechanism to provide a desired output path.
The synthesis of five bar path generating mechanisms using genetic algorithms
(IEE/IEEE, 1995) Connor, AM; Douglas, SS; Gilmartin, MJ
This paper presents a methodology for the synthesis of multi-degree of freedom mechanisms using genetic algorithms. A Five-Bar mechanism is a 2-DOF system which requires two inputs to fully describe the output motion. In a hybrid mechanism, one of these inputs is supplied by a constant velocity (CV) motor and one is supplied by a programmable servo motor. Such configurations can have considerable savings in power consumption, when the armature inertia of the servo motor is low when compared to the load inertia. In the presented synthesis of such mechanisms the two inputs required are provided by the CV input and the desired position of the end effector. The genetic algorithm is used to search for the optimum link lengths and ground point positions to minimise a multi-criteria objective function. The criteria which contribute to the objective function value are the error between the actual path of the end effector and the desired path, the mobility of the mechanism, and the RMS value of the servo motor displacements
Alternatives to regression models for estimating software projects
(AUT University, 1996) MacDonell, SG; Gray, AR
The use of ‘standard’ regression analysis to derive predictive equations for software development has recently been complemented by increasing numbers of analyses using less common methods, such as neural networks, fuzzy logic models, and regression trees. This paper considers the implications of using these methods and provides some recommendations as to when they may be appropriate. A comparison of techniques is also made in terms of their modelling capabilities with specific reference to function point analysis.
Software process engineering for measurement-driven software quality programs: realism and idealism
(AUT University, 1996) MacDonell, SG; Gray, AR
This paper brings together a set of commonsense recommendations relating to the delivery of software quality, with some emphasis on the adoption of realistic perspectives for software process/product stakeholders in the area of process improvement. The use of software measurement is regarded as an essential component for a quality development program, in terms of prediction, control, and adaptation as well as the communication necessary for stakeholders’ realistic perspectives. Some recipes for failure are briefly considered so as to enable some degree of contrast between what is currently perceived to be good and bad practices. This is followed by an evaluation of the quality-at-all-costs model, including a brief pragmatic investigation of quality in other, more mature, disciplines. Several programs that claim to assist in the pursuit of quality are examined, with some suggestions made as to how they may best be used in practice.
Effort estimation for the development of spatial information systems
(University of Otago, 1996) MacDonell, SG; Benwell, GL
The management and control of software processes has assumed increasing importance in recent times. The ability to obtain accurate and consistent indications of, for example, system quality, developer productivity and schedule projections is an essential component of effective project management. This paper focuses on these ‘traditional’ software engineering issues in relation to the development of spatial systems. In particular, techniques for development effort estimation are considered and a case study illustrating the application of one specific estimation method (Mark II function point analysis) is presented. Given its original basis in business information systems, the method is adjusted in order to account for (some of) the differentiating characteristics of spatial systems. The method is then retrospectively applied to a recently developed hazards analysis system. The effort estimate obtained is sufficiently close to the actual effort used in development to illustrate the potential of such a technique for project management in the spatial systems domain.
Software forensics: old methods for a new science
(IEEE Computer Society Press, 1996) MacDonell, SG; Aakjaer, A; Sallis, PJ
Over the past few years there has been a renewed interest in the science of software authorship identification; this area of research has been termed `software forensics'. This paper examines the range of possible measures that can be used to establish commonality and variance in programmer style, with a view to determining program authorship. It also describes some applications of these techniques, particularly for establishing the originator of programs in cases of security breach, plagiarism and computer fraud.
Metrics for database systems: an empirical study
(IEEE Computer Society Press, 1997) MacDonell, SG; Shepperd, MJ; Sallis, PJ
An important task for any software project manager is to be able to predict and control project size and development effort. Unfortunately, there is comparatively little work, other than function points, that tackles the problem of building prediction systems for software that is dominated by data considerations, in particular systems developed using 4GLs. We describe an empirical investigation of 70 such systems. Various easily obtainable counts were extracted from data models (e.g. number of entities) and from specifications (e.g. number of screens). Using simple regression analysis, a prediction system of implementation size with accuracy of MMRE=21% was constructed. This approach offers several advantages. First there tend to be fewer counting problems than with function points since the metrics we used were based upon simple counts. Second, the prediction systems were calibrated to specific local environments rather than being based upon industry weights. We believe this enhanced their accuracy. Our work shows that it is possible to develop simple and useful local prediction systems based upon metrics easily derived from functional specifications and data models, without recourse to overly complex metrics or analysis techniques. We conclude that this type of use of metrics can provide valuable support for the management and control of 4GL and database projects
Applying soft systems methodology to multimedia systems requirements analysis
(AUT University, 1997) Butt, DZ; Fletcher, T; MacDonell, SG; Norris, BE; Wong, WBL
The Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) was used to identify requirements for the development of one or more information systems for a local company. The outcome of using this methodology was the development of three multimedia information systems. This paper discusses the use of the SSM when developing for multimedia environments. Namely, this paper covers the problems with traditional methods of requirements analysis (which the SSM addresses), how the SSM can he used to elicit multimedia information system requirements, and our personal experience of the method. Our personal experience is discussed in terms of the systems we developed using the SSM.
Early experiences in measuring multimedia systems development effort
(Springer-Verlag, 1997) Fletcher, T; MacDonell, SG; Wong, WBL
The development of multimedia information systems must be managed and controlled just as it is for other generic system types. This paper proposes an approach for assessing multimedia component and system characteristics with a view to ultimately using these features to estimate the associated development effort. Given the different nature of multimedia systems, existing metrics do not appear to be entirely useful in this domain; however, some general principles can still be applied in analysis. Some basic assertions concerning the influential characteristics of multimedia systems are made and a small preliminary set of data is evaluated.
Applications of fuzzy logic to software metric models for development effort estimation
(IEEE Computer Society Press, 1997) Gray, A; MacDonell, S; Isik, C; Cross, V
Software metrics are measurements of the software development process and product that can be used as variables (both dependent and independent) in models for project management. The most common types of these models are those used for predicting the development effort for a software system based on size, complexity, developer characteristics, and other metrics. Despite the financial benefits from developing accurate and usable models, there are a number of problems that have not been overcome using the traditional techniques of formal and linear regression models. These include the nonlinearities and interactions inherent in complex realworld development processes, the lack of stationarity in such processes, over-commitment to precisely specified values, the small quantities of data often available, and the inability to use whatever knowledge is available where exact numerical values are unknown. The use of alternative techniques, especially fuzzy logic, is investigated and some usage recommendations are made.
Establishing relationships between specification size and software process effort in CASE environments
(Elsevier, 1997-01) MacDonell, SG
Advances in software process technology have rendered some existing methods of size assessment and effort estimation inapplicable. The use of automation in the software process, however, provides an opportunity for the development of more appropriate software size-based effort estimation models. A specification-based size assessment method has therefore been developed and tested in relation to process effort on a preliminary set of systems. The results of the analysis confirm the assertion that, within the automated environment class, specification size indicators (that may be automatically and objectively derived) are strongly related to process effort requirements.
A comparison of techniques for developing predictive models of software metrics
(Elsevier, 1997-06) Gray, A; MacDonell, SG
The use of regression analysis to derive predictive equations for software metrics has recently been complemented by increasing numbers of studies using non-traditional methods, such as neural networks, fuzzy logic models, case-based reasoning systems, and regression trees. There has also been an increasing level of sophistication in the regression-based techniques used, including robust regression methods, factor analysis, and more effective validation procedures. This paper examines the implications of using these methods and provides some recommendations as to when they may be appropriate. A comparison of the various techniques is also made in terms of their modelling capabilities with specific reference to software metrics.
Metric selection for effort assessment in multimedia systems development
(IEEE, 1998) MacDonell, SG; Fletcher, T
This paper describes ongoing research directed at formulating a set of appropriate metrics for assessing effort requirements for multimedia systems development. An exploratory investigation of the factors that are considered by industry to be influential in determining development effort is presented. This work incorporates the use of a GQM framework to assist the metric selection process from a literature basis, followed by an industry questionnaire. The results provide some useful insights into contemporary project management practices in relation to multimedia systems
Design and control of cross coupled mechanisms driven by AC brushless servomotors
(Professional Engineering Publishing, 1998) Connor, AM; Burrows, CR; Edge, KA
This paper presents an overview of a design methodology for the optimal synthesis of hybrid mechanisms. Hybrid mechanisms have been defined as multi-degree of freedom systems where the input motions are supplied by different motor types. In this work a five bar mechanism is designed for a given task under the constraint that one input axis rotates with constant velocity whilst the other input can exhibit any motion requirement. A machine of this type is classified as being cross-coupled due to the mechanical linkage between the input axes. Cross-coupling implies that the input motion on one axis effects the position of the other input axis. This can lead to either opposition to, or accentuation of the control system input. Such a system as this is difficult to control due to the compensation for this on each axis leading to further disturbance. Results are presented for a real machine operating in this way and the actual output of the machine is compared to the desired input of the machine.
A fuzzy logic approach to computer software source code authorship analysis
(Springer-Verlag, 1998) Kilgour, RI; Gray, AR; Sallis, PJ; MacDonell, SG; Kasabov, N; Kozma, R; Ko, K; OShea, R; Coghill, G; Gedeon, T
Software source code authorship analysis has become an important area in recent years with promising applications in both the legal sector (such as proof of ownership and software forensics) and the education sector (such as plagiarism detection and assessing style). Authorship analysis encompasses the sub-areas of author discrimination, author characterization, and similarity detection (also referred to as plagiarism detection). While a large number of metrics have been proposed for this task, many borrowed or adapted from the area of computational linguistics, there is a difficulty with capturing certain types of information in terms of quantitative measurement. Here it is proposed that existing numerical metrics should be supplemented with fuzzy-logic linguistic variables to capture more subjective elements of authorship, such as the degree to which comments match the actual source code’s behavior. These variables avoid the need for complex and subjective rules, replacing these with an expert’s judgement. Fuzzy-logic models may also help to overcome problems with small data sets for calibrating such models. Using authorship discrimination as a test case, the utility of objective and fuzzy measures, singularly and in combination, is assessed as well as the consistency of the measures between counters.

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