Software-Engineering Process Simulation model (SEPS)

This paper describes the Software-Engineering Process Simulation (SEPS) model developed at JPL. SEPS is a dynamic simulation model of the software project-development process. It uses the feedback principles of system dynamics to simulate the dynamic interactions among various software life-cycle development activities and management decision-making processes. The model is designed to be a planning tool to examine trade-offs of cost, schedule, and functionality, and to test the implications of different managerial policies on a project's outcome. Furthermore, SEPS will enable software managers to gain a better understanding of the dynamics of software project development and perform postmortem assessments.