IEEE 983

Description / Abstract: The purpose of this guide is to explain and clarify the contents of each section of a Software Quality Assurance Plan (SQAP) that satisfies the requirements of ANSI / IEEE Std 730-1984 [2].¹ The guide does not constitute further requirements than those stated in ANSI/ IEEE Std 730-1984 [2]. An organization can claim compliance with ANSI/IEEE Std 730-1984 [2] without following completely, or in part, this guide.

This guide presents the current consensus of those in the software development community with expertise or experience in generating, implementing, evaluating, and modifying a SQAP. Section 3 of this guide describes the content of each section in a SQAP that satisfies ANSI/IEEE Std 730-1984 [2]. Each subsection of Section 3 quotes the applicable wording from the standard. Section 4 provides guidance for implementing a SQAP on a software project, or within a software development organization. Section 5 provides guidance for evaluating the contents and the implementation of a SQAP. Section 6 provides guidance for the procedures used to modify an existing SQAP. The Appendix presents a summary of the contents of a SQAP. This guide is applicable to the development and maintenance of all software, recognizing that the application of these recommendations should be tailored to the specific software product item. The user of this guide should be aware that efforts are underway to provide standards and guides that cover many areas. Prior to implementation, a check should be made with the Secretary, IEEE Standards Board, for further detailed guidance in this area.

¹ The numbers in brackets correspond to those of the reference listed in Section 1.2.