Through the Pillars

Software engineering does not fully meet the definition of a profession at this time. Widely available initial education is just beginning to emerge. Certification became available only in 2002. Licensing is available to only a tiny fraction of current software workers. A code of ethics exists, but it isn't enforced. Much work is being done, however, to accelerate the movement of software engineering into the Established and Maturing stages.

If we apply Bacon's scientific method to software engineering, we can see the three steps we need to help software engineering reach maturity.

Purge your mind of prejudices. The software industry needs to kick its addiction to code-and-fix development, a prejudice that has a long track record of benefiting no one.

Collect observations and experiences systematically. A few organizations have begun collecting data on the effectiveness of their development practices and evaluating which practices make them most successful. Some have achieved dramatic results. Other organizations need to follow.

Stop, survey what you have seen, and draw initial conclusions. This book presents some initial conclusions.

Software development is at a major decision point. We can stay safe in our code-and-fix harbor, not venturing past the Pillars of Hercules and not achieving the significant gains that have already been discovered by software engineering explorers. Or we can boldly venture toward a new profession of software engineering and begin colonizing a new world of higher productivity, lower costs, shorter schedules, and better quality.