A longitudinal analysis of software maintenance patterns

Software maintenance is a process that extends over years and often decades. However, most empirical studies of software maintenance are cross-sectional in nature (Kemerer 1995). As a result, very little is known about how software systems evolve and what determines different maintenance trajectories. Without such knowledge, it is difficult for information systems (IS) managers to plan effectively for maintenance work and to assess the need for reengineering or replacement of systems.