In search of theory and tools to support code inspections

This paper proposes a research agenda and tool development methodology to support software code inspections. Research suggests promise and opportunity for a practical, people-oriented, and cognitively-based code inspection research approach. To provide theoretical and practical foundations, this paper identifies research assumptions, pitfalls and potentials. It also proposes a theoretical causal model. Finally, the paper presents and analyzes results from a pilot study. Research contributions include: linking tasks, technology, and levels of maturity (using a slightly modified capability maturity model); and positing that, given process maturity and reviewer proficiency profiles, management can better allocate resources (program coders and reviewers matched by motivation, code selection, supporting documentation, and review tools/processes)