An Evaluation of the Software Engineering Institute's Capability Maturity Model as a Framework for Software Process Improvement at Three Air Logistics Centers

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Abstract:

This research sought to determine whether a relationship exists between the maturity level of the software process, as determined by the Software Engineering Institutes Capability Maturity Model SEI CMM, and the actual success of particular software projects at three US Air Force Air Logistics Centers. Project success is defined in terms of cost, schedule, and quality criteria. In addition, each organizations acceptance of the SEI assessment as well as its effectiveness in setting up follow-on process improvement programs were evaluated. Finally, the process improvement programs were reviewed individually inasmuch as these programs are the mechanisms for achieving improved quality, lower cost, and on-time software projects. The research was accomplished through a combination of information gathering techniques and data analysis. A literature review, both within and external to the Department of Defense, summarized current software process research, discussed the CMM in detail, presented case studies using the SEI CMM, and introduces software project success criteria. Using information gathered from three Air Force software organizations, we addressed each research objective.

Author(s):
Hermann, Brian G. ; Lewis, Raymond J., Jr
Author Organization(s):
AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSONAFB OH
Descriptive Note:
Master's thesis
Pagination:
0116

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
AFIT/GSS/LAR/93D-5
Monitor Series:
AFIT
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5.3.3_Develop Strategy; JCA_5.3.4_Develop Courses of Action; JCA_5.3.5_Analyze Courses of Action; JCA_5.6_Monitor; JCA_4.2_Supply; JCA_4.2.1_Manage Supplies and Equipment; JCA_4.5_Operational Contract Support; JCA_4.5.1_Contract Support Integration; JCA_4.6_Engineering; JCA_5.6.3_Assess Achievement of Objectives; JCA_5.6.1_Assess Compliance with Guidance; JCA_4.6.1_General Engineering; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_1.2.5_Lessons Learned; JCA_5.1.1_Establish and Maintain Unity of Effort with Mission Partners; JCA_5.1_Organize; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_1.2.1_Training; JCA_1.3_Human Capital Management
Communities of Interest:
Engineered Resilient Systems
Descriptor(s):
*SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, *RESEARCH MANAGEMENT, ACCEPTANCE TESTS, METHODOLOGY, AIR FORCE RESEARCH, THESES, CASE STUDIES
Field(s)/Group(s):
Computer Programming and Software
Keyword(s):
CMM(CAPABILITY MATURITY MODEL)
Report Date:
1993 Dec 01