Code Similarity Search with ALM Entity Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current code search tools fail to provide insights from application lifecycle management (ALM) systems for code similarity, limiting developer productivity and code quality by not supplementing identification of similar code with relevant ALM information such as defects or requirements.
Innovation Solution
A system that identifies a target code segment, acquires similar code from a code similarity system, and retrieves ALM entities associated with those similar codes from an ALM system, integrating this information into the developer's interface to enhance code development and quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If code search tools are used to identify similar code, then code similarity identification is achieved, but ALM information (defects, requirements) is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the code search functionality with ALM system functionality into a unified system. The code search tool queries both code repositories and ALM databases simultaneously, merging previously separate information sources into a single integrated query interface that returns both similar code and associated ALM entities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs multiple functions through a single integrated platform: it searches for similar code segments, retrieves associated ALM entities (defects, requirements, tests), and presents unified results. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate code search and ALM information retrieval tools.
2Productivity
If ALM system information is integrated with code search, then developer productivity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that connects the code search interface with the ALM system database. This intermediary handles the complex queries and data retrieval operations, translating user search requests into appropriate ALM system queries and presenting results in a unified format without exposing the underlying complexity to users.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the information retrieval process into distinct modules: code segment identification, similarity matching, ALM entity association, and result presentation. Each module handles a specific aspect of the query processing, making the overall complex system manageable through functional decomposition.
3Ease of manufacture
If similar code is identified without ALM context, then code reuse is enabled, but defect propagation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by proactively retrieving and displaying defect information and other ALM entities associated with similar code segments before the developer copies or uses the code. This advance warning allows developers to take preventive measures, such as modifying the code or conducting additional reviews, to avoid propagating known defects.
Data Source
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AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to acquiring identification of an application lifecycle management (ALM) entity associated with similar code. Examples include identifying a target code segment, and acquiring, from an ALM system, identification of an ALM entity associated with other code similar to the target code segment and identified by a code similarity system.