System Composition Strategies, A Position Paper for an ECBS Panel - My Position: Analogy Questionable, Intentions Estimable

There can surely be no doubt that appropriate, automated design techniques are essential for the success of any complex computer based systems. No computer system can succeed unless the complexity is well managed. The techniques cited in the brief are fundamental for the management of complexity and the development of computer based systems. My position is that automated system composition is inevitable if computer based systems are to be well engineered. However, I question the analogy of software as glue, and the goal of a single integrated system. Software is more than glue, it si function providing. The work of other branches of engineering demonstrates the importance of automated design techniques to gain success in complex systems. The architecture of separate autonomous components, managed over a reliable infrastructure is proposed in contrast to a single integrated system.