Optimization models for quality and cost of modular software systems

This study presents two optimization models for selecting the best Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software product among alternatives for each module in the development of modular software systems. The objective function of the models is to maximize quality within a budgetary constraint. The software system consists of several programs, where a specific function of each program can call upon a series of modules. Several alternative COTS products are available for each module. A weight to the modules is given by utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) based on the access frequencies of the modules. A. simplified example is given to demonstrate each optimization model. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.