CrossTalk: The Journal of Defense Software Engineering. Volume 18, Number 7

Implementing Configuration Management for Software Testing Projects, by Steve Boycan and Dr. Yuri Chernak -- This case study looks at a configuration management (CM) process that you can use with any available CM tool to help your software testers achieve better results on highly critical software testing projects. Configuration Management Fundamentals, by the Software Technology Support Center -- This broad overview of configuration management (CM) takes you through the functions of CM to establishing a software baseline library to the CM process. It also includes a CM checklist, case studies, and lessons learned. A Correlated Strategic Guide for Software Testing, by Christopher L. Harlow and Dr. Santa Falcone -- The study in this article presents data to support using initial test deficiencies in mid-production software tests to guide later iterative testing to improve testing and expose problems earlier. 'But the Auditor Said We Need to...' Striking a Balance between Controls and Productivity, by Greg Deller -- This article discusses the gap between audit-recommended controls and those typically implemented by software project teams. It lists commonly misunderstood audit recommendations and provides an explanation of what auditors are really seeking. Finding CM in CMMI, by Anne Mette Jonassen Hass -- This article takes you through the Configuration Management Key Process Area requirements in Capability Maturity Model Integration step-by-step, offering advice on how to get started and how to get better in this process area.