An introduction to the UMTA specification language

Abstract

Many of the problems in the implementation and maintenance of computer programs occur during the transition from detailed functional specifications to reliable computer code (i.e., in the detailed design, coding, testing, and integration of the computer program). A study for the U.S. Air Force found that approximately 65 percent of the software effort in several large systems went into these transitional activities.(1) In other words, about twice as much software effort went into getting the computer programs to work reliably as went into determining what functions the programs should perform. This paper describes a tool to improve that ratio. The Urban Mass Transportation Administration (UMTA) is employing a highly systematic approach to the management of computer software development. Part of this approach is the documentation and review of detailed technical specifications for computer programs. This review helps assure that the computer programs, when implemented, will do the job they are intended to do. The review takes place prior to any coding of the computer programs to reduce the amount of redesign and recoding during programming.