Improving the testability of UML class diagrams

Abstract

This paper synthesizes our research efforts in the field of object-oriented test. These efforts have two different goals. First, we identify of recurrent design structures - or testability anti-patterns - that worsen software testability. Second, we use the UML extension mechanisms to better specify design information that can make implementation more testable. Although detecting testability anti-patterns during software design is a crucial task, one cannot expect from a non-specialist to make the right improvements, without guidance or automation. To overcome this limitation, each definition of an anti-pattern is associated with an alternative design solution.