Combining Process Feedback with Discrete Event Simulation Models to Support Software Project Management

Process feedback is an essential ingredient in process change planning and software project management. In this paper, we discuss on-going work with an industrial partner to integrate feedback from the software development process with a discrete event simulation model to improve process performance predictions. A flexible metrics repository provides feedback that is used to generate updated simulation model parameters at predefined project milestones. Model predictions using updated parameters and current project data are compared to Outcome Based Control Limits (OBCLs) defined for the project. These predictions enable the program manager to take corrective action as necessary with the simulation model providing feedback and insight on potential performance impacts of the proposed corrective actions. This creates a feedback loop with the process enhancing model predictions supporting project management decisions.