A Fresh Look at Codification Approaches for SAKM: A Systematic Literature Review

The last 10 years have seen a rise of approaches for Software Architecture Knowledge Management (SAKM), with a focus on codification of architecture knowledge. Still there is no common meta-model for describing architectural knowledge nor is there a common terminology for the main concepts of such a model. While this might lead to the question whether such a common meta-model is even possible, it is certainly desirable. We decided to tackle this question based on the results of 10 years of research in this area. As part of a systematic literature survey we analyzed and compared model-based approaches for SAKM. Specifically we analyzed the models of SAKM approaches with the highest-rated evidence for different knowledge management activities like capturing, maintaining, reuse, sharing, and using. As a result we identified important aims and elements of proven SAKM approaches, which could be used as a driver for the next generation of AK codification approaches.