WebComposition/EMS: A Value-Driven Approach to Evolution

The evolution of Web applications is the continuous process of maintaining available and developing new functionalities. Already implemented functionalities are provided by the units of the distributed Web system, i.e. its components and services, which have to be maintained to assure a stable operation. Furthermore, to react on upcoming needs existing units are adapted or new ones are developed and integrated. Depending on the unit of evolution, more or less efforts are invested. Alas, the benefit caused by units evolved becomes only apparent after some time and usually solely with regard to the entire product. However, the values of units of evolution are subject to change during their life cycles because they are influenced by several parameters like audience acceptance, development and maintenance costs. That is, before a positive or negative impact on the product revenue can really be perceived, the values of Web application services and components already underlie changes. So, it would be profitable to take notice of such value alternations to be able to anticipate revenue tendencies as early as possible and consequently to initiate appropriate actions on time.