Abstract
M.Ing.
This dissertation is intended to make a contribution to the engineering intellectual pool of knowledge by offering a perspective on the subject of software development that encompasses safety (i.e. quality, qualification and reliability).
Software development will be examined in light of developments made in recent years in three engineering disciplines: quality, qualification and reliability. These developments will be infused into an established system engineering process currently in use in Denel Dynamics (referred to as ‘the organization’).
This dissertation will probe how the concept of software quality is addressed and ensured in the organization. With the aid of current (best) practices and processes; techniques and systems, the author intends to present a different perspective on the development of quality software products from the current view of the organization, by addressing software safety, reliability and cost.
The author believes that software quality, with particular emphasis on reliability, if systematically administered in a structured and controlled manner in an organization, will yield products for global markets that are both safe and cost-efficient. In the following chapters, software reliability will be discussed in detail in a quantitative and/or qualitative manner to explain the case presented.
It is envisioned that the information collated in this dissertation will be used by all involved in the software product life cycle, such as first-time programme or project managers, programmers and decision makers, to help make informed decisions that will ensure the organization realizes the best return on its investment.