3. Integration: a reuse-oriented approach

The key point here is the modular approach – and centered around a communication framework (see § 2), – which must govern the phase of defining the architecture of the system to be integrated.

This involves clearly identifying the functional entities making up the system (IP), as well as the various aspects of their intercommunication (OCB).

From there, and for each of the entities thus identified, the reuse/development/acquisition alternative should be considered as soon as possible, based on the following main criteria:

• standard/innovative/strategic nature of the functionality concerned ;

• design resources and time available ;

• prospects for future needs ;

• in-house availability and current...