Integrating TQM and SEI Process Assessment

This paper describes a methodology for assessing the software process (both development and maintenance) used by an organization. The assessment methodology integrates the principles of Total Quality Management and the work of the Software Engineering Institute. Assessment results in a well-understood, well-documented, quantitatively evaluated software process. The methodology utilizes four steps: investigation, modeling, data collection, and analysis of both process content and process output. Process improvements are determined by analysis results.