QRMF: A Multi-Perspective Framework for Quality Requirements Modelling

In recent years, a considerable amount of research has been conducted in modelling non-functional requirements (NFR) or Quality Requirements (QR). However, in comparison with functional requirements (FR) modelling, QR models are still immature and have not been widely adopted. The fundamental reason for this shortfall outlined in this thesis is that the existing QR modelling approaches have not adequately considered the challenging nature of QRs. In this thesis, this limitation is addressed through integrating QR modelling with FR modelling in a multi-perspective modelling framework. This framework, thus called QRMF (Quality Requirements Modelling Framework), is developed offering a process-oriented approach to modelling QR from different views and at different phases of requirement. These models are brought together in a descriptive representation schema, which represents a logical structure to guide the construction of requirement models comprehensively and with consistency. The research presented in the thesis introduces a generic meta-meta model for QRMF to aid understanding the abstract concepts and further guide the modelling process; it offers a reference blueprint to develop a modelling tool applicable to the framework. QRMF is supported by a modelling process, which guides requirement engineers to capture a set of complete, traceable and comprehensible QR models for software system. The thesis presents a case study, which evaluates the practicality and applicability of the QRMF. Finally, the framework is evaluated theoretically, through comparing and contrasting related approaches found in the literature