Managing the development of reliable software

This paper discusses the serious need for improved management methods and software development technology to support the production of truly reliable software and presents experience gained on TRW's Site Defense Program in addressing that need. The basic theme is simply this: We have attempted to achieve a better understanding of how to specify, design, build and validate reliable software; we have translated that understanding into an integrated and exceptionally disciplined software development methodology; we have used, evaluated and refined the methodology enough to recognize and report substantial early success and continuing progress toward that goal.