Using groupware tools to extend the organizational memory with collaboration aspects

In this paper is described how computer supported cooperative work can be used to enhance project development memory, focusing on software development. The collaboration model that is presented is based upon the concepts of communication, coordination and cooperation. Each of these concepts is analyzed regarding software specification. The paper presents some examples of systems that seek to capture and refine group ideas through the process of argumentation. The paper also shows how the building of project memory can facilitate the recovery of the context and the reasoning that led to the taking of project decisions.