Towards a product derivation process framework

Inefficient product derivation practices can greatly diminish the productivity gains expected from a software product line approach. As a foundation for systematic and efficient product derivation a better understanding of the underlying activities in industrial product line development is required. We have developed a process framework that comprises important tasks product line stakeholders have to perform during product derivation. The framework is based on both literature and industrial practice. In this paper we report on observations obtained in a case study with an automotive supplier, describe our results to date in developing a product derivation process framework and outline how our framework can provide a link to automated derivation approaches.