Towards a Model-Based Framework for Integrating Usability and Software Engineering Life Cycles

In this position paper we propose a process model that provides a development infrastructure in which the usability engineering and software engineering life cycles co-exist in complementary roles. We describe the motivation, hurdles, rationale, arguments and implementation plan for the need, specification and the usefulness of such a model. Our approach does not merge one lifecycle’s techniques into another; rather it coordinates each lifecycle’s activities, timing, scope, and goals using a shared design representation between the two lifecycles. We describe potential shortcomings and conclude with an implementation agenda for this process model.