Prerequisites for Successful Software Development

Abstract

Defense systems are becoming increasingly complex and dependent on computer and software technologies to fulfill military requirements, Today, we seek to procure a decreasing number of highly complex weapons and defense systems, which are sufficiently software intensive and technologically advanced so as to deter an adversary's numerically superior arsenal.To insure continued policy success, we need to ensure that two of its precepts remain valid, First, systems must demonstrate military utility and meet performance requirements when imperative to do so; and, second, acquisition costs must be affordable in terms of both quality and quantity, Stated in another way, national defense strategy is predicated, in part, on an affordable balance of quality and quantity of military weapons and systems.While software does not have traditional production costs associated with quantities, quality of software-intensive systems takes on increased importance in modem systems. Quality systems require: (1) articulating realistic requirement, both contractual and operational (military); (2) a cost effective process to quantitatively demonstrate achievement of performance requirements, while being timely and relevant; and (3) a valid evaluation and assessment process that not only provides the basis for current performance, but also a predictive basis of weapon system success or failure.Quality must be an integral ingredient in the development strategy. Today, this focus on quality defense weapon systems is expressed in terms of Total Quality Management (TQM). The question which arises is, "How is TQM applied to software development strategies to promote achievement of technical performance levels and mature operational performance?.By applying TQM principles to the software development process, it is possible to: (1) identify common factors and environmental influences that hindered success, (2) analyze current strategies for strengths and weaknesses, and (3) project strategies that capitalize on lessons learned for future.