ABSTRACT
This paper examines how computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools can increase the reliability of software during system development. An introduction examining what CASE is and what are its goals is followed by sections addressing the different areas in which CASE tools can increase system reliability.
The potential benefits of automating analysis and design methods such as SSADM, GANE and SARSON and YOURDON are explained. The increased reliability which can be achieved through automatic data consistency, correctness and completeness checking is also described. The advantages of a central data repository of information, which preserves the integrity and hence the reliability of data during the various phases of development, are examined. The reliability inherent form the reuse of both software modules and designs is described. The generation of documentation which will aid future software maintenance and the reliability benefits of automatic code generation from design specifications are explained.
Finally, conclusions are presented summarising the key reliability aspects associated with CASE and highlighting the problems that can follow from believing that CASE tools alone can eliminate the production of unreliable software.
