Flexible design methodology management

A design methodology (DM) can be defined as a sequence of activities required to get from one stage of the silicon design process to another. The author illustrates a well-known set of high level design actions which involves the synthesis, transformation and verification of data. If the set of actions is followed according to some design flow then the definition of a design methodology becomes a description of a company´s policy for product design and development. The design methodology is then incorporated into a company´s culture as a customer guarantee that certain standards are laid down and adhered to. Design methodology management aids design by spanning the complete design process. Not only does a design process require management but the need for different methodologies provides the motives for seeking a flexible design methodology management system. The author presents a definition of DM and DMM, as well as a structure for a DMMS that proactively supports the flow of control during design. The structure also facilitates design flow reprogrammability and tool reconfigurability