An Interactive Visualization Tool for Understanding Complex Programs.
J. Cherry, Marie‐Claire Arrieta, Eric N. Brown, Srinivasan Ramaswamy · 2004
Abstract: In this paper, we present the development of a program parser coupled with an off-the-shelf interactive program visualization tool that assists in the understanding of complex computer programs. The major objective of this work is to quickly help newcomers become familiar with existing software code and become productive members of the software development team. These software systems that often incorporate several interacting pieces will be produced and maintained by several individuals and/or vendors. Hence, it will be difficult for one individual or group to be fully cognizant of the intricacies of the overall software system. In work-related training, interactive visual systems will be required to provide support for teaching organizations ’ newer workforce to quickly learn and effectively contribute to the development and maintenance of these complex and critical software systems. An environment that provides an in-depth view of the software system will be necessary to fulfill this requirement. Additionally, an interactive visual system may provide a means to dynamically access and analyze the skills and capabilities of trainees for skill-based job placement. I.