The Context Dynamics Matrix (CDM): An approach to modelling context

Context plays an important role in various analysis techniques across disciplines including software engineering. In software engineering, however, context is typically viewed to be merely representing scope and system boundaries. We present a view of context to be a dynamic element of every stage of (software) development, not limited to analysis and design. We introduce a multi-dimensional view of context based on perception and influence, replacing the typical one-dimensional view. To realize the dynamic behaviour of contextual elements we use a 2x2 matrix to represent four contextual states. The contextual states are a result of either contextual/noncontextual influence(s), or explicit/implicit perception(s). We demonstrate the usefulness of our method through a case-study for requirements developed for a system which marks voters electronically using handheld PDA devices. The requirements are analysed and modelled using focal points, context-centres, and context maps.