Describing, Instantiating and Evaluating a Reference Architecture : A Case Study
Paris Avgeriou · 2003
Abstract. The result of a domain maturing is the emergence of reference architectures that offer numerous advantages to software architects and other stakeholders. However there is no straightforward way to describe a reference architecture and in sequence to design in-stances for specific systems, while at the same time assuring the quality of the end product. This paper presents an approach of describing a reference architecture, instantiating it into a software architecture by making implementation decisions and evaluating it with respect to quality attributes. A case study for the approach is drawn from the domain of Learning Management Systems which is maturing and would greatly benefit from a reference archi-tecture. This work is based upon the IEEE standard for architectural description, on well-established software engineering practices, and on the empirical results of designing, devel-oping and evaluating Learning Management Systems.