Towards Integrating Scenario-Based Requirements Engineering for Autonomous Vehicle Systems

In the ever-evolving landscape of software engineering, the success of a project largely depends on precise and well-understood requirements. The scenario-based approach in requirement engineering stands out for its ability to bridge the gap between abstract requirements and real-world applications where diverse and constantly evolving requirements are common. This position paper introduces the concept of scenario-based approach and its potential in facilitating the development of complex systems. This position paper uses autonomous vehicles as a case study to illustrate the proposed approach’s feasibility. Developing complex systems like an autonomous vehicles system presents unique challenges in requirements engineering, with a primary issue being effective stakeholder involvement and alignment of expectations with the final outcome. We proposed a multi-step scenario-based approach to maximize stakeholders’ satisfaction while minimizing conflict. These steps include scenario identification, scenario analysis, scenario validation, and iterative refinement. This paper posits the potential of scenario-based requirements engineering to provide a structured approach to addressing system needs by defining requirements within the context of real-world scenarios, thereby enhancing stakeholder participation. Furthermore, the paper identifies key areas where this requirement engineering approach can be enhanced to improve dynamic usability and efficiency of complex systems such as autonomous vehicles.