/spl pi/-SPACE: a formal architecture description language based on process algebra for evolving software systems

Abstract

This paper presents an architecture description language, called /spl pi/-SPACE, designed to cope with requirements on evolving software architectures. /spl pi/-SPACE provides constructs for describing architectures based on the /spl pi/-calculus. It supports the adding, replacing and removing of components and connectors in an evolving software system. Applications of /spl pi/-SPACE are motivated by work on the relationships between business processes (including software development) and the software systems which support them. Businesses need flexible software that enhances their ability to adapt and survive in changing organizations.