Control and management of the software maintenance changes process

Abstract

The cost of software maintenance is very high and projected to climb higher in the future. Failure to adopt and utilize improved technical and management methods and tools contributes to the high cost and burden of maintenance. Software configuration management as an effective technique of controlling software development/ maintenance is examined. Two change control models are identified and evaluated as to their effectiveness and completeness toward achieving efficient control and easing maintenance effort. A proposed change control model which addresses more aspects and promises better results through a set of guidelines for an "ideal" software maintenance change control is presented. Software maintenance change control tools are discussed by identifying two of the existing tools. With proper implementation of the proposed change control model and the use of an effective change control tool, better control of the maintenance process can be achieved, and the maintenance effort reduced.