ANALYSIS AND DESIGN OF WEB-BASED INFORMATION-SYSTEMS

We have developed a method for analysis and design of web-based inform ation systems (WBISs), and tools to support the method, WebArchitect a nd PilotBoat. The method and the tools focus on architectures and func tions of web sites, rather than on appearance of each web resource (pa ge), such as graphics and layouts. Our goal is to efficiently develop WBISs that best support particular business processes at least mainten ance cost. Our method consists of two approaches, static and dynamic. We use the entity relation (E-R) approach for the static aspects of WB ISs, and use scenario approach for the dynamic aspects. The E-R analys is and design, based on relationship management methodology (RMM) deve loped by Isakowitz et al., defines what are entities and how they are related. The scenario analysis defines how web resources are accessed, used, and changed by whom. The method also defines attributes of each web resource, which are used in maintaining the resource. WebArchitec t enables designers and maintainers to directly manipulate meta-level links between web resources that are represented in a hierarchical man ner. PilotBoat is a web client that navigates and lets users collabora te through web sites. We have applied our approaches to the WWW6 proce edings site. (C) 1997 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.