Introduction to Components

This paper develops a component definition that is concise and robust in all circumstances for our purposes by investigating dictionary definitions and comparing the use of components in other industries with that in the software development industry. In addition, we will discuss the potential advantages and common pitfalls of using such technology for software development. We will discuss component concepts in a technology and development process free manner; the reader should understand that when comparing the terminology and concepts expressed in this paper with those used in specific implementation technologies and software development processes, a mapping exercise between the two may well be necessary.