A benchmark-based adaptable software process model

Benchmark-based process assessment and improvement is a cutting-edge technology in software engineering for adaptive and relative process improvement. It is found that benchmark-based process improvement is more adaptable, feasible, and economical in process-based software engineering. By adopting the benchmark-based process improvement, the target capability levels of a software organization may be set related to the benchmarks of the software industry or a specific sector, rather than a virtual highest capability level according to a goal-oriented process model. The objective of this project is to develop a benchmark-based and organization and project size and features adaptable software process model (BBASPM). This report describes the architecture of the BBASPM model and its process and capability dimensions. BBASPM is developed by referring to the SEPRM model and benchmarks in process selection and target process capability determination. Adaptation guidelines of BBASPM to different sized organizations and projects are provided, especially for small organizations and small projects. BBASPM is developed as a superset of CMM, ISO 15504 and ISO 9001. Using the mapping mechanism provided in SEPRM, the BBASPM capability levels can be transformed into other process models and standards, such as CMM and ISO 15504. We also describe our experience in using BBASPM on a process improvement project.