Using smart connectors to resolve partial matching problems in COTS component acquisition

Abstract

Components, especially commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components, are mainly for inter-organizational reuse. One of the essential tasks in component-based development (CBD) is to locate and reuse the right components that provide the functionality and interface required by component consumers. However, if a candidate component provides a limited applicability and customizability so that it does not completely satisfy the functionality and interface needed, then a component consumer cannot reuse the component in application development. We call it a partial matching problem in component acquisition. To resolve this problem, we propose smart connectors that fill the gap between candidate components and the specification of components required. By using connectors, partially matched components become reusable in application development without sacrificing the component consumer's requirements. Consequently, the effort and cost to develop new components and applications can be greatly reduced. In this paper, we propose four types of connectors, and each connector type is specified with its applicable situation and instructions to design correct connectors.