Managing software development - requirements to delivery

The software production process for Bell Labs' large toll switcher, the No. 4 Electronic Switching System (ESS) is evolutionary in nature. New features are released in generic program issues and each issue builds on the one before. The development plan covering the generics is defined and kept on target by a series of development benchmarks. Management of this production process is focussed in a single supervisory group, headed by a supervisor called a generic engineer. The role of this engineer includes development planning, lab testing, lab resource scheduling, and delivery to the field site. Also vital to the successful management approach described here are the functions of the system test team, the No. 4 ESS administrative organization, the development support system, and the structuring of effective intergroup communication.