Method engineering-a framework for improved computer based medical systems design

Numerous development methods, based on the variety of paradigms, have been proposed over the years. Of these very few were successfully applied in the development of computer based systems. Both generic and more specific methods have been designed and constantly adapted and extended to meet the changing needs. A "metaapproach" supporting adaptation and extensions called method engineering, has been proposed recently. Method engineering is a very promising, but at the same time very young paradigm, and consequently not yet very well defined. Because of its encouraging features the author decided to analyze the possible application of method engineering in medical system design. In this manner the author had to clarify some points about method engineering and redefine it to be beneficial in medical design situations. The aim of this paper is to present how the Checklands Soft System Methodology has been used in the accomplishment of above tasks.