In this paper, the authors provide a detailed view of the evolution of this important phase of software engineering. They describe the processes through which the evolution has taken place. It is interesting to note the thrust in the process approach to software engineering methods. The paper is a comprehensive repository of information on the evolution of software engineering, with specific references to object orientation. It is good to see all of the phases of this evolution, and their rationale, presented in a comprehensive manner.

This paper would be helpful for researchers in this area. It would also be helpful to students pursuing higher studies in software engineering. However, the authors could have presented a comprehensive comparative analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and underpinnings before getting into the road ahead for object-oriented methodologies. One has to struggle through the paper to appreciate its motivations. Another issue that limits understanding of the methodologies is the lack of analyses of their complexities, which are discussed while appreciating the evolution process. Though the authors have rightly abstracted away from the details of modeling languages to focus on processes, it would have been beneficial for readers to be exposed to architectural issues and challenges during their evolution. An evaluation strategy for these methodologies, with dimensions in architecture, business, and economic issues, could have provided an important direction. Because of these limitations, the paper provides a restricted view for practitioners.

Overall, the paper is important for students, researchers, and practitioners in software engineering. However, a thorough understanding of software engineering principles in general, and object-oriented software development in particular, would be necessary to appreciate this paper. Therefore, it may not be suitable for beginning students.