A framework for reusable and rehostable software

The software content of real-time embedded military weapon systems continues to increase as do the cost and time to develop these systems. Many solutions have been suggested as a means of reducing the cost of software development. Software reuse is recognized as one of the most promising approaches to explore; however, it is a exceedingly difficult strategy to implement. Developing unique solutions to this common need is not cost effective. The Combat Vehicle Operating Environment (CVOE) was initially aimed at providing this common solution. This paper gives the details of the genesis of CVOE and its associated reuse model. It is suggested that the approach developed can be applied more broadly throughout an organization. For this to happen, a comprehensive software reuse and productivity strategy that encourages domain-based reuse and the development of general-purpose products is needed.