Feature refactoring a multi-representation program into a product line

Abstract

Feature refactoring is the process of decomposing a program into aset of modules, called features, that encapsulate increments in program functionality. Different compositions of features yield different programs. As programs are defined using multiple representations, such as code, makefiles, and documentation, feature refactoring requires all representations to be factored. Thus, composing features produces consistent representations of code, make files, documentation, etc. for a target program. We present acase study of feature refactoring a substantial tool suite that usesmultiple representations. We describe the key technical problems encountered, and sketch the tool support needed for simplifying such refactorings in the future.