An integrated framework for simulation-based software process improvement

A Correction to this article has been published in Software Process: Improvement and Practice 2005; 10(3):355 In this article, we present an integrated framework for software process improvement according to the Capability Maturity Model (CMM). The framework is double-integrated. First, it is based on the systematic integration of dynamic modules to build dynamic models that model and simulate each maturity level proposed in the reference model. As a consequence, a hierarchical set of dynamic models is developed following the same hierarchy of levels suggested in the CMM. Second, the dynamic models of the framework are integrated with different static techniques commonly used in planning, control, and process evaluation. The paper describes the reasons found to follow this approach, the integration process of models and techniques, the implementation of the framework, and shows an example of how it can be used in a software process improvement concerning the cost of software quality. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.