The Soft System Methodology as a Framework for Software Process Improvement

The Soft System Methodology as a Framework for Software Process Improvement

Peter D.C. Bennetts, A. Trevor Wood-Harper, Stella Mills
Copyright: © 1998 |Pages: 8
DOI: 10.4018/joeuc.1998010102
OnDemand:
(Individual Articles)
Available
$37.50
Current Special Offers
No Current Special Offers
TOTAL SAVINGS: $37.50

Abstract

The overall aim of this paper is to argue that only a systems-based approach to information systems development (ISD) and software process improvement (SPI) are likely to cover all the recognised issues. This paper will examine reports in the literature concerning problems associated with ISD and implementation. The characteristics of these problems are identified. It is noted that these problems have been known for many years. The responses to the problems fall into two broad areas which are characterised as paradigms. On the one hand, there is a belief that systems development should be considered to be a form of applied science or engineering (Dijkstra, 1976; Floyd, 1992; Hoare, 1982). This is also the approach behind Software Process Improvement. However, there are weaknesses with this approach which are identified below. These weaknesses are addressed by approaches from within the second paradigm or systems paradigm (Checkland, 1981; Checkland and Scholes, 1990). The systems paradigm has been developed from the traditional paradigm. Consequently, it is argued that fewer problems will be found if methodologies based on the systems paradigm are used. The foundations and nature of this approach are described. Further, it is shown that the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), which is based on this paradigm, can be used as a metaphor or model of ISD. In this form it is recursive and so this model is characterised as Recursive SSM. SSM is offered as a useful framework for both ISD and software process improvement (SPI).

Complete Article List

Search this Journal:
Reset
Volume 36: 1 Issue (2024)
Volume 35: 3 Issues (2023)
Volume 34: 10 Issues (2022)
Volume 33: 6 Issues (2021)
Volume 32: 4 Issues (2020)
Volume 31: 4 Issues (2019)
Volume 30: 4 Issues (2018)
Volume 29: 4 Issues (2017)
Volume 28: 4 Issues (2016)
Volume 27: 4 Issues (2015)
Volume 26: 4 Issues (2014)
Volume 25: 4 Issues (2013)
Volume 24: 4 Issues (2012)
Volume 23: 4 Issues (2011)
Volume 22: 4 Issues (2010)
Volume 21: 4 Issues (2009)
Volume 20: 4 Issues (2008)
Volume 19: 4 Issues (2007)
Volume 18: 4 Issues (2006)
Volume 17: 4 Issues (2005)
Volume 16: 4 Issues (2004)
Volume 15: 4 Issues (2003)
Volume 14: 4 Issues (2002)
Volume 13: 4 Issues (2001)
Volume 12: 4 Issues (2000)
Volume 11: 4 Issues (1999)
Volume 10: 4 Issues (1998)
Volume 9: 4 Issues (1997)
Volume 8: 4 Issues (1996)
Volume 7: 4 Issues (1995)
Volume 6: 4 Issues (1994)
Volume 5: 4 Issues (1993)
Volume 4: 4 Issues (1992)
Volume 3: 4 Issues (1991)
Volume 2: 4 Issues (1990)
Volume 1: 3 Issues (1989)
View Complete Journal Contents Listing