Title: Towards an ontological approach to software product line development: a case study of e-banking applications

Authors: Nesrine Lahiani; Samir Bettahar; Messaouda Fareh

Addresses: LRDSI Laboratory, Computer Science Department, Saad Dahlab Blida 1 University, Blida, Algeria ' Computer Science Department, Saad Dahlab Blida 1 University, Blida, Algeria ' LRDSI Laboratory, Computer Science Department, Saad Dahlab Blida 1 University, Blida, Algeria

Abstract: Software product line (SPL) development has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential to reduce time-to-market and development costs while maintaining quality. However, SPL development still faces significant challenges, such as complexity and variability management. To address these challenges, this paper presents an ontological approach to SPL development that formalises domain knowledge and provides a common vocabulary for stakeholders to communicate and reason about the development process. The approach is demonstrated using an e-banking case study that involves multiple products with varying requirements and features. The case study shows how the ontological approach can support different activities in SPL development, such as domain analysis, feature modelling, and configuration management. The results demonstrate that the ontological approach can improve the quality and consistency of the SPL development process, reduce the development time and cost, and facilitate better communication among stakeholders. The paper concludes by discussing future research directions and potential applications of the ontological approach in other domains.

Keywords: software product line; SPL; variability; derivation product; feature model; ontology; e-banking.

DOI: 10.1504/EG.2025.148241

Electronic Government, an International Journal, 2025 Vol.21 No.5, pp.461 - 480

Received: 19 Jul 2023
Accepted: 11 Apr 2024
Published online: 01 Sep 2025 *

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