Genetic Programming in Software Engineering: A Systematic Literature Review

Software Engineering is involved in all phases of the Software Development Life Cycle, implying a systematic and disciplined development process. Currently, there are optimization challenges within the phases and activities of Software Engineering, where a Genetic Programming (GP) approach can yield better results due to its individual representation. This Systematic Literature Review aims to analyze the current state of GP application in Software Engineering by identifying the phases and activities of software development where Genetic Programming has been applied and summarizing the advantages of using this technique. The results indicate that GP has been utilized in every phase of software development, predominantly in the construction phase. Moreover, Program Synthesis emerges as a promising area, significantly impacting new fields such as Genetic Improvement.