XVCL: XML-based variant configuration language

XVCL (XML-based Variant Configuration Language) is a meta-programming technique and tool that provides effective reuse mechanisms [2]. XVCL is an open source software (http://fxvcl.sourceforge.net) developed at the National University of Singapore. Being a modem and versatile version of Bassett\´s frames [1], a technology that has achieved substantial gains in industry, the underlying principles of the XVCL have been thoroughly tested in practice. Unlike original frames, XVCL blends with contemporary programming paradigms and complements other design techniques. XVCL uses "composition with adaptation" rules to generate a specific program from generic, reusable meta-components. Program generation rules are 100% transparent to a programmer, who retains full control over fine-tuning the generated code. Despite its simplicity, XVCL can effectively manage a wide range of program variants from a compact base of metacomponents, structured for effective reuse.