abstract
search based software engineering (sbse) is an emerging
discipline that focuses on the application of search-based
optimization techniques to software engineering problems.
the capacity of sbse techniques to tackle problems involving large search spaces make their application attractive for
software product lines (spls). in recent years, several publications have appeared that apply sbse techniques to spl
problems. in this paper, we present the results of a systematic mapping study of such publications. we identified
the stages of the spl life cycle where sbse techniques have
been used, what case studies have been employed and how
they have been analysed. this mapping study revealed potential venues for further research as well as common misunderstanding and pitfalls when applying sbse techniques
that we address by providing a guideline for researchers and
practitioners interested in exploiting these techniques.