The application of tools to an IPSE

An IPSE (integrated project support environment), is a generalisation of computer aided software engineering techniques to include all the activities and information within a project. It is implemented on a distributed computer system and contains the following major functions: information and procedure management and tools for information creation and transformation. The author proposes that an IPSE is an application of conventional data management and process control techniques and is not just a `workstation´. Procedural management is fundamental to orderly application of tools and the tools themselves need explicit specification. Controlled evolution of trusted components may then result in a manageable and efficient IPSE which is suitable for application to critical systems