Practical Improvements in the Management of Real-Time Software Projects

Abstract The experience gained during the development of software - based on real-time process computer systems is reviewed for two similar projects. A completed project of more than 100 man-years effort is analysed in order to identify the most significant problems and factors which influenced the productivity, quality and success of the project. Based on this experience, improved technology and methods are discussed which are being employed in the second large project currently in development. The topics of project organisation, software life cycle, software design, development tools and productivity are covered for both of the projects. The contraints on such projects imposed by their complexity and organisation within a large company as well as their economic success require a pragmatic and realistic approach.