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Why is an Audit needed?
Whether the work is performed internally or outsourced to an external supplier, carrying out regular audits and reviews for existing processes will:
- ensure they are performing correctly
- highlight any areas where there may be shortfalls or where additional assessments are needed
- check improvement plans are adequate and being correctly executed
- verify that the measurements employed are appropriate, consistent, correct and complete
- indicate what corrective actions can be instigated to correct deviations
- provide input, such as lessons learned, into the next planning cycle.
Audit Procedures
SMS can provide a thorough, formal examination of a software project, or of development, maintenance and support teams. This produces a factual report defining the situation and status. The audit package includes the definition of the criteria to be used, which will be based on International Standards and on the requirements and expectations of the parties involved. Contractual obligations can also be evaluated and advice given on negotiations for ongoing partnerships. These audits assume input, negotiation and commitment by all parties.
Measurement Audit
Where an output-based contract using functional size measures is in use, an audit of measurement practice from a knowledgeabe and independent third party can be crucial to maintaining the trust underpinning the partnership.
Over time, supplier teams may develop variances from standard practice. Differences of interpretation in measurement technique sometimes arise between customer and supplier. SMS has extensive experience of working with clients' vendor management teams and the suppliers' development teams to improve measurement practice, reduce costs, and reduce waste.
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