Dimensions of interactive software requirements: synergistic opportunity

Structured analysis and design (SAD), object-oriented analysis and design (OOAD), and interface design (ID) define formal methods for discovering requirements and designing interactive software systems. Structured and object-oriented methods, collectively known as software engineering (SE) methods, specify methodologies that employ a unique set of interrelated models. Interface design methods employ user-centered techniques to understand users, their work environment and goals. Each specialized approach relies on the knowledge worker as a source of requirements where success hinges on effective coordination of activities in heterogeneous software development environments (K. Holtzblatt, Interactions, pp. 17-20, 1994). The software creation process may employ each of these methods independent of the other, in conjunction with the other, or not at all. SAD, OOAD, and ID methods yield independent views of requirements yet many of their activities, or dimensions of requirements, overlap within the context of a software development project. This paper investigates dimensions of requirements common to those methods that suggest collaborative opportunity, reduced knowledge worker burden, and improved software quality are possible. A current state analysis of requirements methods defined in the literature, and identification of interrelated and overlapping characteristics are discussed.