Using the Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method to Evaluate a Reference Architecture: A Case Study

The software architecture of a system is a major determinant of software quality and one of the earliest artifacts available for evaluation. For a government acquisition organization, the ability to evaluate software architectures can have a favorable impact on the delivered system. This technical note describes the application of the Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method (ATAM) to evaluate a reference architecture for ground-based command and control systems. The use of the term reference architecture in the context of this application is presented. A general overview of the ATAM process is provided and the results of the ATAM are explored, including the benefits of performing an ATAM-based architecture evaluation both to the acquirer and to the developer.