Result: Iterative and Incremental Model-Based Development with xtUML : Attempting to Develop a C++ Unit Testing Framework (UTF)

This thesis explores the evolution and contemporary efficacy of unit testing frameworks (UTFs), particularly focusing on the significant impact of Kent Beck’s “Test-Driven Development” (TDD) example on modern UTF practices. Amid technological advancements and shifts in software development methodologies, this study assesses the translation of these traditional practices into model-based development (MBD) using executable and translatable unified modeling language (xtUML), a generic modeling language, and the evaluation of the challenges involved in this translation process.The research was conducted using a design science research (DSR) approach, facilitating the creation and iterative refinement of a new UTF named TypeUnit. This process involved an in-depth analysis of existing UTFs to determine their adherence to the features laid out by Beck. The study also thoroughly examined the difficulties of translating Python code from Beck’s TDD example into xtUML, refactoring the model to better fit the UTF domain, and further translating the refactored model back to C++ code. This highlighted the discrepancies in language features, data types, and the overall adaptation required to fit the xtUML modeling constraints.Key findings indicate that Beck’s principles continue to influence modern UTF designs, though the foundational nature of these features makes it challenging to directly attribute developments exclusively to his example. Moreover, the research of the study uncovered significant obstacles in model-to-code translation, particularly due to outdated documentation, the steep learning curve associated with xtUML, and the limited support from the small but existing community.This study contributes to the understanding of UTF evolution, provides insights into the practical use of MBD in software testing, and identifies critical areas for future research, particularly in enhancing the usability and integration of model-driven approaches in UTF development.