Where next in software standards?

Abstract

A large number of software standards have been developed concerned with software products and processes, terminology and more general fraework standards. While the need for software standards is not disputed, it is felt that many standards fail to take into account the essential differences, and occasionally the similarities, between software products and processes and other engineering products and processes. Ideally, standards should be useful, testable and represent a consensus view. It appears that some software standards fall significantly short of these objectives. Further progress in developing useful software standards requires a better understanding of the potential benefits which standards have, and do not have, to offer the software industry. The relevant issues are discussed and the next steps which should be taken in developing software standards suggested.