Ease of learning and using a CASE software tool: an empirical evaluation

Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) has been receiving increasing attention because of its potential for substantial productivity improvement of software development. Yet only about 24% of companies use these tools. Arguments have been made that CASE tools are difficult to learn and use. We conducted two experiments with subjects who were both students and professional analysts to evaluate how easy it is for first time users to learn and a CASE tools to draw Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs).We found a typical CASE tool was easy to learn and use for developing correct, complete, balanced and readable DFDs. These experiments provide support for providing training in the structured technique before introducing the CASE tool based on the technique. It is proposed that failure to understand the technique may be translated into perceived failure of the CASE technology, and one reason for the limited use of CASE in organizations.