Modeling software tools with ICON

The author describes a software test automation tool, a powerful programming language, and the software development process that resulted when these tools were combined. The first model of the Buster automated testing system was conceived, designed, and implemented ahead of schedule in less than six months, complete with many features and components. The Buster system provides a test-information subsystem with facilities for multiproject test sharing, per-project test storage and planning, and test downloading for lab use. A separate test execution facility is also included that features test-result logging, a results database, and per-session I/O recording. The software modeling technique that was used to create the Buster test system is an idea that can be used to produce reliable low-cost software in many applications. The model can be used by customers as it is slowly evolved into a finished product