Evaluation and Improvement of a 2D UML Class Diagram Layout Algorithm

Abstract: Measuring the quality of software is a complex task. Various analyses and computations of software quality metrics support this process. For certain investigations it is helpful to visualize the relations between different components of software in order to check quality aspects. The VizzAnalyzer tool was developed for these purposes and allows the visualization of software systems as UML2.0 class diagrams. The visualization plug-in lays out the internal structure and ensures a high readability of the layouts. In this thesis the layout algorithm embedded in the plug-in is optimized to increase its performance and the readability of layouts computed. The interaction with other applications is an important aspect. The current visualization plug-in is extended to meet the requirements of the Quick Orientation Viewer and to support future applications. The optimizations and extensions are further addressed to enhance the usability and the functions provided by the layout algorithm.