ABSTRACT: Integrated Development Environments (IDES) are presented as a unified set of information system development concepts, techniques, and computer-aided tools. An IDE consists of both a complete and unified development methodology and set of computer aids that support use of the methodology. The need for IDES and their characteristics are reviewed. The PLEXSYS-84 IDE is reviewed in relation to these needs and characteristics. Techniques and tools which extend the initial work are placed within the original PLEXSYS-84 framework and are described in some detail.
Key words and phrases: automation of system development, tools for system development, integrated development environments, system development methodologies