John Bailey

Evaluating clone detection tools for use during preventative maintenance

This paper describes the results of a process whereby the detection capability of 5 code replication detection tools for large software application are evaluated. Specifically this work focuses on the benefits of identification for preventative maintenance that is with the aim to remove some of the identified clones from the source code. A number of requirements are therefore identified upon which the tools are evaluated. The results of the analysis processes show that each tool has its own strengths and weaknesses and no single tool is able to identify all clones within the code. The paper proposes that it may be possible to use a combination of tools to perform the analysis process providing that adequate means of efficiently identifying false matches is found.

Evidence relating to Object-Oriented software design: A survey

Case study is an important research methodology for software engineering. We have identified the need for checklists supporting researchers and reviewers in conducting and reviewing case studies. We derived checklists for researchers and reviewers respectively, using systematic qualitative procedures. Based on nine sources on case studies, checklists are derived and validated, and hereby presented for further use and improvement.There is little empirical knowledge of the effectiveness of the object-oriented paradigm. To conduct a systematic review of the literature describing empirical studies of this paradigm. We undertook a Mapping Study of the literature. 138 papers have been identified and classified by topic, form of study involved, and source. The majority of empirical studies of OO concentrate on metrics, relatively few consider effectiveness.

Search Engine Overlaps: Do they agree or disagree?

Secondary studies, such as systematic literature reviews and mapping studies, are an essential element of the evidence-based paradigm. A critical part of the review process is the identification of all relevant research. As such, any researcher intending to conduct a secondary review should be aware of the strengths and weakness of the search engines available. Analyse the overlap between search engine results for software engineering studies. Three independent studies were conducted to evaluate the overlap between multiple search engines for different search areas. The findings indicate that very little overlap was found between the search engines. To complete a systematic review, researchers must use multiple search terms and search engines. The lack of overlap might also be caused by inconsistent keyword selection amongst authors.

Tree-map visualisation for Web accessibility

Ensuring a Website is accessible for diverse sets of users is a crucial and in some circumstances a legal requirement. It can also be a time consuming and frustrating fire fighting exercise. This research paper describes a visual evaluation of the accessibility of a Website using Tree-Maps. Its goal is to highlight areas of a site that need attention. This is achieved by generating accessibility metrics and then plotting these onto a visualisation. The research identified that tree-maps can efficiently represent the accessibility of a Website. Further work on the visualisation of changes in accessibility is suggested and discussed.

What is the current state of Web Accessibility

Two studies were conducted, focusing on the perceptions and current state of Web accessibility. It found a strong trend towards content management software, and considerable differences between how those who specialise in accessibility and those charged with Web maintenance assess and perceive accessibility. Both studies also revealed that there is very little awareness of Web accessibility issues and commitment of resources in many organisations. Recommendations are made for more training, especially for management

Web accessibility evolution in the United Kingdom

Web accessibility has received a lot of attention within the UK recently. This paper gauges how the accessibility of Web sites with the UK has changed over recent years. Web sites were chosen from 3 groups (public organisations, FTSE companies and universities) and using the Internet Archive yearly samples were taken and accessibility assessment carried out. It was found that overall the accessibility of sites within all three groups had improved with the most dramatic improvement evident within FTSE companies.