Demeter: a case study of software growth through parameterized classes

Demeter is a system designed for the development of large software projects using a software design methodology which focuses on growing rather than building software. A description is given of the software development process as one of growth and evolution as opposed to building and rebuilding because most complex objects in the real world are grown and not built. Since software design is obviously a complex process this new paradigm may be helpful in unraveling some of the problems associated with current software design practices. Demeter begins by providing an ideal environment for the sprouting and nurturing of a seed (data dictionary) into a plant (large scale software project). In addition, through the combined use of object-oriented programming technology, and parameterized classes, Demeter provides a facility for the reuse of software which was developed in previous software projects