Data Structures for a Generic Software System Using the Composite Design Pattern

A well-designed generic software system can be reused in many contexts by efficiently handling variability. In this paper, data structures and their application in a software architecture is presented that apply the basic idea of the Composite design pattern to keep it as simple as possible, but also as generic as possible. The application of these data structures is shown throughout a layered architecture so that software developers can follow and apply the concepts. The benefit of such an architecture is that it (1) only makes use of familiar concepts, and it is easy to read and understand by knowing especially one design pattern and (2) results in a generic software system, usable in different domains.