Important issues and key activities in product derivation: experiences from two independent research projects

When compared to the vast amount of research on domain engineering and building product lines, relatively little work has been dedicated to the derivation of individual products from product lines. Existing approaches to product derivation have been developed in isolation with different aims and purposes. The definition of a generic product derivation approach applicable to every domain may not be possible. However, comparing existing approaches allows the identification of both important issues to be addressed and key activities to be supported. In this experience paper we report on how we compared two product derivation approaches developed in two different, independent research projects. Based on the comparison and our experiences, we identify key activities that any approach to product derivation should consider. Additionally, we point out areas of uncertainty and identify remaining challenges within product derivation.