How are Java software developers using the Eclipse IDE?

TLDR

Eclipse is increasingly popular among Java developers, and understanding how developers work in IDEs provides a baseline for evaluating new tools. The report aims to define which data should be collected and shared continuously to improve Eclipse and similar platforms. The study uses a usage‑monitoring approach to sample developers’ tool usage in the wild. Collected usage data can prevent feature bloat and guide environment evolution to meet user needs.

Abstract

The Eclipse integrated development environment continues to gain popularity among Java developers. Our usage monitoring approach allows tool builders to sample how developers are using their tools in the wild. The data gathered about tool use can be used to prevent feature bloat and to evolve the environments according to user needs. Information about how developers work in a development environment can also provide a baseline for assessing new software development tools. We hope this report provides a start in defining which in formation to collect and distribute on an on going basis to help improve Eclipse and other similar platforms and tools.