Visualization of Log Files of Embedded Broadband Modules

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Exponential increase in the amount of software in consumer telecom products has resulted in growing needs for resolving maintenance issues together with customers. The resolutions often require understanding systems status through understanding its log-files. As the log-files contain sensitive information, new ways of visualizations are needed to allow for efficient dialog between customers and software maintenance engineers without disclosing the sensitive content. METHOD: The research presented in this paper has been conducted together with our industrial partner – Ericsson – and follows on the action research methodology. RESULTS: The visualization tool and MS Windows Sidebar Gadget were developed during the first circle of action research. The tool is applicable for log analysis and over 90% of respondents estimated time savings as minimum 20%. The potential of using gadget for real-time and acceptance testing was also revealed. CONCLUSION: The overall impact of the tool’s utilization at the studied department leads to effort reductions and time savings as minimum 20% during the key activities. Applying the gadget to real-time testing has the potential to enable immediate problem notification, simultaneous monitoring and concentrating testing efforts on machines where errors occur