학술논문

Making Metaphors that Matter
Document Type
Conference
Source
2011 Agile Conference Agile Conference (AGILE), 2011. :256-262 Aug, 2011
Subject
Computing and Processing
Computer architecture
Guidelines
Software
Context
Programming
Documentation
Reliability
software architecture
Agile
Extreme Programming
XP
system metaphor
architecture styles
architecture patterns
Language
Abstract
The system metaphor was proposed in Extreme Programming as a lightweight alternative to more rigorous architecture practices, but many teams have trouble using metaphors effectively to improve team communication or evaluate a system's architecture. This is no surprise as few agile teams have had training in architecture practices let alone in how to create metaphors. In our experience this does not invalidate the metaphor, but rather shows that more guidance is needed in the proper use of metaphors. This paper outlines one team's positive experience using system metaphors in the development of a medium-sized, service-oriented, enterprise system. Specific guidelines for creating effective metaphors are presented along with concrete examples.