Identifying embedded software quality: two approaches

This paper focuses on strategies for the identification and specification of embedded software quality. After having identified the need for additional support in eliciting quality requirements, two different approaches are presented. The multi-party chain approach is based on an explicit identification of stakeholders and their concerns with the proposed system. The second approach is questionnaire-based. It links quality characteristics to the characteristics in the environment within which the system is to function. Both approaches are based on the assumption that interrelations exist and can be determined between business system characteristics and embedded software quality characteristics. Both approaches are validated in various case studies in practice. This paper discusses the major results of these case studies. Advantages and disadvantages of both approaches are looked into. Both approaches proved to be fruitful, encouraging further research and experimentation. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.