Publication Date

Spring 1995

Degree Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

General Engineering

First Advisor

MS. Dorothy McKinney

Abstract

This engineering management research report addresses the critical challenge of balancing fast time-to-market with high product quality in software development. While manufacturing sectors have successfully accelerated product development using modern management approaches like concurrent engineering and total quality management, the software industry continues to struggle with delays, cost overruns, and defect-heavy releases.

To address this gap, the study investigates the determining factors that dictate the optimal balance between rapid release cycles and zero-defect software. By utilizing environmental assessments and a quantitative analysis tool, the report provides a strategic framework for software product managers to evaluate external competitive factors, internal company processes, and specific product characteristics. Ultimately, the research yields actionable guidelines for selecting the optimal software release definition and timing strategies to improve the overall software engineering process.

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