Abstract:
Little attention has been paid in the literature on “how to
implement” software process improvement (SPI) which
has resulted in limited success for many SPI efforts. In this
paper we report on our recent empirical study which
explored the experiences and perceptions of practitioners
about SPI implementation. We visited 11 companies and
conducted 14 in-depth interviews. Using the different
experiences and opinions of practitioners regarding SPI
implementation, we have developed a model for the
implementation of SPI programmes. This model has six
phases - awareness, learning, pilot implementation, SPI
implementation action plan, implementation across the
organization and maintenance - and provides advice to
practitioners in effectively implementing SPI programmes.
