This research will investigate the dynamic generation of traceability links to support the impact analysis of entirely new requirements. Without such support, the introduction of new requirements into an implemented software system can lead to unanticipated conflicts with existing functionality and can adversely impact non-functional requirements such as performance, security, safety, and reliability. The research will define a methodology known as Integrated Dynamic Link Generation (IDLG) for dynamically generating traceability links between new requirements and an existing set of software engineering artifacts. IDLG will provide a dynamic environment in which link generation rules are learned and refined throughout the lifetime of the software system. The research will develop relevant algorithms and methodologies, and will deliver a fully functioning prototype tool with interfaces to industrial strength software engineering tools.
