Multi-dimensional variability modeling

Abstract

The variability of a software product line (SPL)is often described with a feature model. To avoid highly complex models, stakeholders usually try to separate different variability dimensions, such as domain variability and implementation variability. This results in distinct variability models, which are easier to handle than one large model. On the other hand, it is sometimes required to analyze the variability dimensions of an SPL in combination using a single model only. To combine separate modeling and integrated analysis of variability, we present Velvet, a language for multi-dimensional variability modeling. Velvet allows stakeholders to model each variability dimension of an SPL separately and to compose the separated dimensions on demand. This improves reuse of feature models and supports independent modeling variability dimensions. Furthermore, Velvet integrates feature modeling and configuration in a single language. The combination of both concepts creates further reuse opportunities and allows stakeholders to independently configure variability dimensions.