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Dimensional Modeling: Initial Approach for Identifying and Classifying Patterns

Dimensional Modeling: Initial Approach for Identifying and Classifying Patterns
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Author(s): Mary Elizabeth Jones (Drexel University, USA)
Copyright: 2003
Pages: 2
Source title: Information Technology & Organizations: Trends, Issues, Challenges & Solutions
Source Editor(s): Mehdi Khosrow-Pour, D.B.A. (Information Resources Management Association, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-59140-066-0.ch345
ISBN13: 9781616921248
EISBN13: 9781466665330

Abstract

It is recognized that software design is a difficult and time-consuming process that requires skill and experience. Software engineers continually seek methods for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the software design process. For example, software engineers have used structured and objectoriented design techniques to improve the software design process. These techniques were developed to enhance the software design process by using a consistent standard approach. Yet, concentration on software design techniques alone has not guaranteed successful software design solutions [Brooks, 1995]. Ward Cunningham concurs: A growing number of us in the object-oriented community feel we have misplaced our collective attention for some time. We no longer need to focus on tools, techniques, notations, or even code. We already have in our hand the machinery to build great programs. When we fail, we fail because we lack experience. [Fowler, 1997] The dilemma remains – how do software engineers obtain experience in order to create effective solutions? As software engineers implemented more and more systems and as the concept of a software pattern was recognized, software engineers became more aware of the similarities within systems. The software engineering community realized they could benefit from capturing and understanding software design similarities within and across various systems. Those similarities formed the basis for software patterns that can be reapplied when designing future systems. With each subsequent system, patterns are used, enhanced, and adapted to improve their usefulness for future systems. Thus patterns capture and combine successful design techniques as well as the experience of software engineers.

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