FW: Deming and software development

[WMack <WMack@PEC.com>]

Mark,

I have been struggling with similar issues.  So far, the only area I have
found to apply control charts in software development is in the 
performance analysis of programs.  In general, I believe that control 
charts may be best applied to  characteristics of specific programs 
and not to software development as a whole.  

Control charts are an effective way to monitor both changes occurring in 
the operational environment and evaluating whether programming changes 
had the desired effect on the software.   For example, I have been able 
to detect unintended changes induced by modifications to database 
optimization rules as well as verify intended improvements actually provide 
noticeable improvement.

I would be interested in hearing anyone else's experiences with applying
Dr. Deming's ideas to software development.  It is certainly an area that
could use help, so if anyone has had successes (or failures!) please
share them.

Wayne Mack