Asynchronous/Synchronous Software Inspection Support Tool (ASSIST) is a generic tool designed to allow the enforcement and support of any inspection process. This is achieved with a custom-designed process modelling language (Inspection Process Definition Language, or IPDL), and a flexible document type system. ASSIST is based on a client/server architecture, where the server is used as a central repository of documents and other data. ASSIST supports both individual and group-based phases of inspection. Group-based phases can be performed synchronously or asynchronously, with the choice of same-place or different-place synchronous meetings.

 Document type specific browsers can easily be added to the system. ASSIST currently has an ASCII browser with fine-grained annotation facilites, a line-oriented code browser, a C++ browser, an active checklist browser, a hypertext-like help browser, and several others. Each makes use of ASSIST's cross-referencing system to allow easy traversal between multiple documents. For example, the C++ browser can automatically present relevant checklist items for the section of code under inspection. A list browser is also provided, allowing inspectors to easily manipulate lists of defects and comments. This browser also allows multiple lists to be automatically collated into a single list, removing any duplicate items.

The IPDL language syntax describes IPDL in detail. This definition may be used as a starting point for implementing other generic inspection support tools. The language may also be used as a precise way of defining paper-based processes. Example IPDL definitions of some well-known inspections processes are also available. Some screenshots of V2.1 of ASSIST are online.

 The latest version of ASSIST (V2.1) is freely available for research purposes. The user manual is available as a technical report. Other reports on ASSIST, IPDL and inspection in general are also available.
 

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