Overview
| This chapter is a sequel to Chapters 2, 5, and 20. The PICS implementation framework is revisited and its four phases are examined in turn. The chapter emphasizes building organization-wide competencies to launch and sustain a DFTS initiative. It starts with a review of various planning activities and a summary of deliverables. It is followed by a detailed presentation of the two implementation steps (Steps 11 and 12). Step 11 deals with establishing overall learning objectives, designing and customizing learning curricula, and providing training for support personnel. Step 12, the core of DFTS implementation, consists of black belt and master black belt training and the ensuing application of such learning to an actual software development project. This is followed by a discussion of monitoring and control mechanisms. A defining aspect of the DFTS learning process involves self-appraisal, successive appraisal, and review of work carried out to date with the customers. Here customers are not only the external customers but also the internal onesthe next person(s) in the development process. Simon's Levers of Control consists of four constructsbelief systems, boundary systems, diagnostic control systems, and interactive control systemsthat deal with strategic control of the enterprise. Another set of control mechanisms, internal control systems, are not used to control strategy but are fundamental to ensuring the integrity of data used in strategic control systems. It is therefore essential that those responsible for the organization's internal control systems be involved to safeguard the integrity of DFTS process and quality data, especially Cost of Software Quality (CoSQ) and other financial data. Finally, the process has operational controls. These are accomplished through feedback control systems, which are an integral part of the PICS framework, and through project management, with its own control mechanisms. The DFTS feedback control system must be designed to measure variables that are important, measurable, and actionable. They meet five different sets of objectives: learning and teaching capabilities, CoSQ capabilities, customer satisfaction, process robustness, and improvement opportunities. A case study of GE's Operating System is introduced as a vehicle to launch a new initiative and enrich it through several yearly cycles. Effective management of the software development process is emphasized using sound project management principles. This is followed by a discussion of the two steps that comprise the "secure" phase of the PICS model: freezing the improvements and gains and integrating the initiative. Next is Case Study 21.2, "Quality Initiatives and Their Integration at TCS." A brief discussion of application in small software firms and e-cottages is provided. The chapter ends with a brief discussion of the future course of a DFTS initiative.
|
EAN: 2147483647
Pages: 394