A Framework‐Based Environment for Object‐Oriented Scientific Codes
Robert A. Ballance, Anthony J. Giancola, George F. Luger, Timothy J. Ross · Scientific Programming · 1993
Frameworks are reusable object‐oriented designs for domain‐specific programs. In our estimation, frameworks are the key to productivity and reuse. However, frameworks require increased support from the programming environment. A framework‐based environment must include design aides and project browsers that can mediate between the user and the framework. A framework‐based approach also places new requirements on conventional tools such as compilers. This article explores the impact of object‐oriented frameworks upon a programming environment, in the context of object‐oriented finite element and finite difference codes. The role of tools such as design aides and project browsers is discussed, and the impact of a framework‐based approach upon compilers is examined. Examples are drawn from our prototype C++ based environment.