Artifact Orientation



Using a stagewise process model in a project not only as a project documentation framework but in a prescriptive manner is definitely a risk. It can be successful under certain circumstances, e.g. if the process captures special knowledge about a repeatable project in a concrete application domain. But in general a stagewise process is likely to fail. Therefore modern software processes implicitly target the decoupling of activities from artifacts, e.g. by spiral or two-dimensional process architectures. However, if such a process aims to be general purpose at the same time, it may tend to micro management. EASE drives a focus shift. EASE stands for artifact orientation from the outset. At course start the artifacts that have to be produced are defined. Activity follows defined artifacts. The students have to find the tasks in order to improve the artifacts themselves. Artifact orientation is an easy metaphor that helps students in self-organization.