The Application of a New Process Quality Measurement Model for Software Process Improvement Initiatives

Conventionally, process analysis is performed by following the traces of processes on the attributes of cost, time and product quality. Although process quality is a significant aspect it is frequently ignored in process analysis. In this paper, we present the results of the applications of the Process Quality Measurement Model (PQMM) and demonstrate the added value that can be acquired by analyzing the process quality for software organizations. The PQMM is a comprehensive and proactive quality measurement model based on the ISO/IEC 9126 Software Product Quality Standard. The basis of the PQMM is the measurement of process definitions. As process definitions can be established before their execution, the PQMM can measure processes before they are put into practice. The model was applied to three different software organizations as part of a software process improvement initiative. The applications of the PQMM provided guidance for the analysis and explanation of the deficiencies or problems identified in the processes. The PQMM was also applied to the improved versions of the processes and facilitated a quantitative evaluation of the improvements accomplished in the processes.