This work reflects current advances in specialized software techniques and tools, as well as the integration of standard software engineering methods. It addresses issues of theory and practice, with international contributions from academia and industry. Features of the text include: a state-of-the-art report; research papers describing the latest work in the area; a balance of theoretical advances and practical techniques, which can be used to build parallel and distributed software systems; papers describing the aims and progress of major, internationally recognised research and development projects in the area; and advanced software tools currently available.