In-process improvement through defect data interpretation

Abstract

An approach that involves both automatic and human interpretation to correct the software production process during development is becoming important in IBM as a means to improve quality and productivity. A key step of the approach is the interpretation of defect data by the project team. This paper uses examples of such correction to evaluate and evolve the approach, and to inform and teach those who will use the approach in software development. The methodology is shown to benefit different kinds of projects beyond what can be achieved by current practices, and the collection of examples discussed represents the experiences of using a model of correction.