IEEE 1219

This standard describes an iterative process for managing and executing software maintenance activities. Use of this standard is not restricted by size, complexity, criticality, or application of the software product. This standard uses the process model, depicted in Table 2, to discuss and depict each phase of software maintenance. The criteria established apply to both the planning of maintenance for software while under development, as well as the planning and execution of software maintenance activities for existing software products. Ideally, maintenance planning should begin during the stage of planning for software development (see A.3 for guidance).

This standard prescribes requirements for process, control, and management of the planning, execution, and documentation of software maintenance activities. In totality, the requirements constitute a minimal set of criteria that are necessary and sufficient conditions for conformance to this standard. Users of this standard may incorporate other items by reference or as text to meet their specific needs.

The basic process model includes input, process, output, and control for software maintenance. Metrics/ measures captured for maintenance should enable the manager to manage the process and the implementor to implement the process (see Table 3). This standard does not presuppose the use of any particular development model (e.g., waterfall, spiral, etc.).

This standard provides additional software maintenance guidance on associated topics in Annex A and tools/ technology assistance in Annex B. Maintenance plan guidelines are provided in Annex C and guidelines for compliance with IEEE/EIA 12207.1-1997 are provided in Annex D.