Break down software
development into its major areas per the 7150.2D
NASA NPR 7150.2D divides
software development into several major areas to ensure a structured,
disciplined, and repeatable process for developing safety-critical and
high-assurance software. Below is a breakdown of the major areas:
1. Software Requirements
Requirement Development:
Identify, document, and analyze software requirements.
Requirement Verification:
Ensure that all requirements are testable and verifiable.
Traceability:
Maintain bidirectional traceability between requirements, design, and
implementation.
Compliance with Standards:
Ensure requirements align with NPR 7150.2D and other relevant standards.
2. Software Design
Architectural Design:
Define the high-level structure and components of the software.
Detailed Design:
Specify low-level details for modules, functions, and interfaces.
Design Documentation:
Provide clear, thorough documentation for design elements.
Design Review:
Perform reviews to validate design against requirements.
3. Software
Implementation
Code Development:
Translate the software design into source code.
Coding Standards:
Apply standards and best practices for readability, maintainability, and
safety.
Code Reviews and Inspections:
Identify and address errors or inefficiencies in the code.
Version Control: Use
configuration management tools to track and control changes.
4. Software Testing
Unit Testing:
Verify that individual software modules work as intended.
Integration Testing: Test
interfaces and interactions between software components.
System Testing:
Evaluate the complete software system in its intended environment.
Regression Testing:
Ensure new changes do not break existing functionality.
Verification and Validation (V&V):
Confirm the software meets requirements and functions correctly.
5. Software Safety
Hazard Analysis:
Identify and mitigate risks associated with software.
Safety Requirements:
Ensure the software complies with safety-critical standards.
Failure Analysis:
Analyze potential points of failure and their impact.
6. Software Assurance and
Quality
Process Assurance:
Verify that software development processes comply with NPR 7150.2D.
Product Assurance:
Ensure that deliverables meet quality and performance requirements.
Metrics Collection:
Track metrics such as defect density, code coverage, and progress.
Independent Verification and Validation
(IV&V): Conduct external evaluations to ensure compliance and
reliability.
7. Software Maintenance
Problem Reporting:
Document and address software issues during its operational phase.
Change Management:
Implement and track changes in a controlled manner.
Continuous Monitoring:
Evaluate software performance and make necessary updates.
8. Configuration
Management
Configuration Identification:
Define and control software configuration items.
Version Control:
Track versions of software artifacts throughout development.
Baseline Management:
Establish baselines for key milestones.
Change Control Board (CCB):
Oversee changes to software artifacts.
9. Project Management
Planning: Develop a Software
Development Plan (SDP) detailing processes, schedules, and resources.
Risk Management:
Identify and mitigate risks that could impact the project.
Progress Monitoring:
Track milestones, deliverables, and resource utilization.
Stakeholder Communication:
Maintain clear, consistent communication with stakeholders.
10. Software Metrics and
Reporting
Performance Metrics:
Track metrics related to process, product quality, and efficiency.
Compliance Metrics:
Ensure adherence to NPR 7150.2D and project requirements.
Reporting:
Provide regular updates on development progress, risks, and quality assurance.
11. Software Acquisition
(if applicable)
Supplier Management:
Ensure third-party suppliers comply with NPR 7150.2D.
Acceptance Testing:
Verify that delivered software meets requirements.
Contract Monitoring:
Track compliance with contract terms and conditions.
12. Software
Documentation
Plan Documentation:
Create documents like the Software Development Plan (SDP), Software
Configuration Management Plan (SCMP), and Software Safety Plan (SSP).
Process Documentation:
Maintain detailed records of development and assurance processes.
User Documentation:
Provide operational and maintenance manuals for end users.
This breakdown ensures that
software developed under NASA projects meets rigorous quality, safety, and
mission-critical requirements. Each area interconnects and aligns with the
principles of NPR 7150.2D for comprehensive oversight and assurance.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe the
Software Requirements phase, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Requirements Phase (NPR
7150.2D)
The Software Requirements
phase focuses on defining, analyzing, validating, and managing the requirements
for software development to ensure the final product meets its intended
purpose. This phase is critical to the overall software lifecycle, as errors or
omissions in requirements can lead to costly issues later in the development
process. The key objectives in this phase are to capture what the software must
do, verify that these requirements are feasible and testable, and ensure
alignment with stakeholder needs and system-level requirements.
Key Activities:
1. Requirements
Definition:
Define software requirements based on system
requirements, user needs, and operational concepts.
Include functional, performance, interface, and
safety-critical requirements.
2. Requirements
Analysis:
Analyze the defined requirements for
completeness, consistency, feasibility, and clarity.
Resolve conflicts and ambiguities.
3. Requirements
Allocation:
Allocate system-level requirements to software
components.
4. Bidirectional
Traceability:
Establish traceability between system
requirements, software requirements, design, and test plans.
5. Validation:
Validate that the requirements are correct,
necessary, and sufficient to meet system and stakeholder needs.
6. Verification:
Ensure requirements are testable through
verification methods (e.g., inspection, demonstration, analysis, or testing).
7. Documentation
and Baseline:
Document requirements in a Software
Requirements Specification (SRS) or equivalent.
Establish and maintain a requirements baseline.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-050: Software
Requirements Development
Develop software requirements based on system
requirements and allocate them to software components.
2. SWE-055: Bidirectional
Traceability
Maintain bidirectional traceability between
software requirements and higher-level requirements, design, and test plans.
3. SWE-057: Software
Requirements Validation
Validate software requirements to ensure they
meet stakeholder needs and system requirements.
4. SWE-058: Requirements
Documentation
Document all software requirements and maintain
this documentation throughout the software lifecycle.
5. SWE-071: Software
Requirements Consistency
Ensure consistency and traceability between
software requirements, design, and testing.
6. SWE-091: Testability
of Requirements
Verify that all software requirements are
testable and include validation criteria.
7. SWE-134: Handling
Changes in Requirements
Ensure that changes to requirements are
reviewed, approved, and updated in the baseline documentation.
8. SWE-135: Safety-Critical
Software Requirements
Address specific requirements for software
safety-critical items, such as hazard mitigation and fault tolerance.
Outputs
of the Software Requirements Phase:
1. Software
Requirements Specification (SRS): A detailed document listing
all functional and non-functional software requirements.
2. Requirements
Traceability Matrix (RTM): A matrix linking system requirements to
software requirements and further to design, code, and tests.
3. Validation
Reports: Documentation showing that the requirements meet
stakeholder needs and are complete and correct.
4. Baseline
Requirements: Approved and controlled requirements that
guide subsequent phases.
The Software Requirements
phase lays the foundation for successful software development by ensuring that
all requirements are well-understood, agreed upon, and documented. Adhering to
the applicable SWEs ensures rigorous compliance with NPR 7150.2D.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe the
Software Design phase, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Design Phase (NPR
7150.2D)
The Software Design phase
translates software requirements into a detailed plan for implementation. This
phase includes defining the software architecture, detailed design, interfaces,
and algorithms to ensure the software meets its requirements while being
maintainable, testable, and reliable. The design phase bridges the gap between
"what" the software must do (requirements) and "how" it
will achieve those objectives (implementation).
Key Activities:
1.
Architectural Design:
Define the high-level software structure,
including components, modules, and their relationships.
Identify design patterns and architecture
styles to be used.
2.
Detailed Design:
Specify the design of individual components,
algorithms, and data structures.
Develop detailed interface designs for
interactions between components and external systems.
3.
Design Consistency:
Ensure that the design aligns with the
requirements and provides bidirectional traceability.
4.
Design for Maintainability and Safety:
Incorporate practices to make the software
design maintainable, scalable, and safe for use in mission-critical contexts.
Consider fault tolerance and redundancy for
safety-critical systems.
5.
Design Documentation:
Document the design in a Software Design
Document (SDD) or equivalent, providing sufficient detail to guide
implementation.
6.
Design Reviews and Walkthroughs:
Conduct formal reviews to validate the design
against requirements, identify issues, and ensure compliance with NPR 7150.2D
standards.
7.
Prototyping (if applicable):
Create prototypes or models to validate complex
design choices and feasibility.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1.
SWE-056: Software
Design Development
Develop a software design that meets software
requirements and adheres to software architecture standards.
2.
SWE-058: Bidirectional
Traceability
Maintain traceability between software
requirements, design, implementation, and testing.
3.
SWE-059: Software
Design Documentation
Document the software design, including
architecture, component interfaces, and detailed design.
4.
SWE-060: Software
Design Review
Conduct reviews of the software design to
ensure it satisfies requirements and identifies potential issues early.
5.
SWE-134: Safety-Critical
Software Design
Address safety-critical aspects in the design,
including hazard mitigation and fault tolerance.
6.
SWE-135: Design for
Maintainability
Ensure the design is maintainable and includes
considerations for scalability and long-term usability.
7.
SWE-136: Interface
Design
Define and document all software interfaces,
ensuring compatibility and clarity.
Outputs
of the Software Design Phase:
1.
Software Design Document (SDD):
Describes the high-level and detailed software design, including architecture,
modules, algorithms, and interfaces.
2.
Interface Control Document (ICD):
Specifies all internal and external interfaces.
3.
Design Traceability Matrix: Maps
software requirements to design elements.
4.
Review Reports:
Documentation from design reviews, including decisions and identified issues.
5.
Prototypes (if applicable):
Models or simulations of critical components.
The Software Design phase
ensures the software architecture and detailed design align with project
requirements and provide a clear path to implementation. By adhering to the
applicable SWEs, the design phase sets the foundation for a structured, safe, and
effective software development process compliant with NPR 7150.2D.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe the
Software Implementation phase, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Implementation Phase (NPR
7150.2D)
The Software Implementation
phase focuses on converting the approved software design into functional source
code. This phase involves coding, unit testing, and integration to produce
reliable software that meets the design and requirements. Adherence to standards,
proper documentation, and rigorous quality assurance are critical to ensuring
the software is safe, maintainable, and compliant with NASA s standards.
Key Activities:
1. Code
Development:
Write source code based on the approved
Software Design Document (SDD).
Follow established coding standards and
guidelines (e.g., readability, maintainability, safety).
2. Coding
Standards and Best Practices:
Apply standards for safety-critical and
mission-critical software.
Ensure consistent use of naming conventions,
comments, and code structure.
3. Code
Reviews:
Conduct peer reviews and inspections to
identify defects and ensure code quality.
Verify code correctness, maintainability, and
compliance with standards.
4. Version
Control:
Use configuration management systems to
maintain version control and track changes to code files.
5. Unit
Testing:
Test individual code units to verify
functionality against the detailed design.
Ensure tests cover all paths and edge cases.
6. Integration:
Combine tested modules to ensure components
work together as intended.
Resolve interface and communication issues.
7. Static
Analysis:
Perform automated static analysis to identify
potential issues, such as memory leaks or security vulnerabilities.
8. Debugging:
Identify and fix defects identified during
testing or reviews.
9. Documentation
Updates:
Maintain code-level documentation, such as
inline comments, and update the Software Development Plan (SDP) and Software
Configuration Management Plan (SCMP) as necessary.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-061: Implementation
of the Software Design
Implement the software design in code, ensuring
alignment with requirements and design specifications.
2. SWE-062: Coding
Standards
Use and adhere to established coding standards
to ensure code quality and consistency.
3. SWE-063: Unit
Testing
Test each unit or module to verify its
functionality against the design.
4. SWE-071: Bidirectional
Traceability
Maintain traceability between requirements,
design, implementation, and testing.
5. SWE-073: Static
Analysis
Perform static analysis to identify issues in
the source code.
6. SWE-091: Verification
of Coding Standards
Verify that the source code adheres to the
defined coding standards.
7. SWE-134: Safety-Critical
Software Implementation
Address safety-critical considerations during
implementation, such as fault-tolerant coding practices.
8. SWE-135: Change
Control
Manage and document changes to the source code
in a controlled manner.
9. SWE-138: Integration
Testing
Conduct integration testing to verify that the
components work together as intended.
Outputs
of the Software Implementation Phase:
1. Source
Code:
The functional implementation of the software design.
2. Unit
Test Results: Documentation of unit test outcomes,
including passed and failed tests.
3. Integration
Test Reports: Evidence of successful module integration and
problem resolution.
4. Code
Review Reports: Findings and resolutions from code reviews.
5. Static
Analysis Reports: Results from automated analysis of source
code.
6. Updated
Documentation:
Inline code comments for maintainability.
Updates to the Software Development Plan (SDP),
Software Configuration Management Plan (SCMP), and Software Requirements
Specification (SRS) as needed.
The Software Implementation
phase transforms the software design into a working system while ensuring it
meets the high standards set by NPR 7150.2D. By adhering to the applicable
SWEs, this phase ensures the development of reliable, safe, and high-quality
software for NASA s critical missions.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe the
Software Testing phase, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Testing Phase (NPR
7150.2D)
The Software Testing phase is
a critical part of the software development lifecycle, ensuring that the
software meets its requirements, functions as intended, and performs reliably
under expected and unexpected conditions. Testing encompasses various levels,
including unit, integration, system, and acceptance testing, and verifies
compliance with NPR 7150.2D requirements.
Key Activities:
1. Test
Planning:
Develop a Software Verification and
Validation Plan (SVVP) or equivalent to outline testing activities,
objectives, methods, schedules, and responsibilities.
2. Unit
Testing:
Test individual software components or modules
to verify their functionality against the detailed design.
3. Integration
Testing:
Test interactions between software components
to ensure they work together as specified.
4. System
Testing:
Test the complete software system in a
controlled environment to validate that it meets functional, performance, and
interface requirements.
5. Acceptance
Testing:
Conduct tests to confirm that the software
meets user needs and stakeholder expectations.
6. Regression
Testing:
Retest the software after changes to ensure
that no new defects have been introduced.
7. Verification
and Validation (V&V):
Verify that the software meets its design and
implementation requirements.
Validate that the software fulfills its
intended use and user needs.
8. Test
Environment and Tools:
Set up testing environments and tools that
mimic operational conditions as closely as possible.
Include automated tools for efficiency and
coverage.
9. Defect
Tracking and Resolution:
Identify, document, and address defects found
during testing.
Ensure that all defects are resolved or
mitigated before release.
10.
Test Coverage and Metrics:
Measure test coverage, such as requirements
coverage, code coverage, and interface coverage.
Track testing metrics, including defect
density, resolution rates, and test completion status.
11.
Test Reporting:
Document test results, discrepancies, and
corrective actions.
Provide evidence of successful completion of
testing activities.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-066: Software
Test Plan
Develop and maintain a software test plan that
defines the testing approach, scope, schedule, and resources.
2. SWE-067: Software
Testing
Conduct testing at all required levels (unit,
integration, system, and acceptance) to verify and validate the software.
3. SWE-071: Bidirectional
Traceability
Maintain traceability between test cases,
requirements, design, and source code.
4. SWE-075: Test
Procedures
Develop test procedures that clearly define how
each test will be conducted.
5. SWE-076: Test
Results
Record and maintain test results, including
pass/fail criteria, defects identified, and resolution actions.
6. SWE-086: Regression
Testing
Conduct regression testing after software
changes to ensure continued compliance with requirements.
7. SWE-134: Safety-Critical
Software Testing
Test safety-critical software components to
ensure they meet all safety and reliability requirements.
8. SWE-138: Integration
Testing
Verify the interactions and integration of
software components through comprehensive integration testing.
9. SWE-153: Automated
Testing
Use automated testing tools where feasible to
enhance test coverage and efficiency.
10.
SWE-190: Verification
and Validation
Perform verification and validation to ensure
compliance with requirements and stakeholder needs.
Outputs
of the Software Testing Phase:
1. Test
Plan:
A document detailing the scope, approach, and resources for testing.
2. Test
Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for conducting tests.
3. Test
Reports:
Unit test results
Integration test results
System test results
Acceptance test results
4. Defect
Reports: Documentation of defects, including their severity,
impact, and resolution status.
5. Regression
Test Results: Evidence that changes have not introduced new
issues.
6. Metrics
and Analysis: Reports on test coverage, defect density, and
other relevant testing metrics.
The Software Testing phase
ensures the software is functional, reliable, and compliant with NASA's
stringent requirements. Following the SWEs associated with this phase helps
produce a high-quality product that meets mission-critical and safety-critical needs.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Software Configuration Management, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Configuration
Management (SCM) NPR 7150.2D
Software Configuration
Management (SCM) is a critical discipline within software engineering that
ensures the integrity, consistency, and traceability of software products and
associated documentation throughout the software lifecycle. SCM includes identifying
configuration items, controlling changes, maintaining baselines, and auditing
configuration processes to ensure compliance with NPR 7150.2D and
project-specific requirements.
Key Activities:
1. Configuration
Identification:
Identify and document all configuration items
(CIs), including software, documentation, and tools.
Define the scope and boundaries of
configuration items.
2. Version
Control:
Track and manage changes to software and
documentation versions.
Ensure that only authorized versions are used.
3. Change
Management:
Establish processes to propose, review,
approve, and implement changes to configuration items.
Use a Change Control Board (CCB) to review and
approve significant changes.
4. Baseline
Management:
Establish and maintain baselines (e.g.,
requirements baseline, design baseline, code baseline) at key project
milestones.
Control changes to baselines through formal
processes.
5. Configuration
Status Accounting:
Maintain records of all configuration items,
their versions, and their changes.
Provide detailed status reports on
configuration activities.
6. Configuration
Audits:
Conduct configuration audits to ensure all CIs
are correctly identified, documented, and controlled.
Verify that the project adheres to SCM plans
and standards.
7. SCM
Planning:
Develop and maintain a Software
Configuration Management Plan (SCMP) that defines SCM processes,
tools, and responsibilities.
8. Tool
Support:
Use SCM tools to automate and facilitate
version control, change management, and status accounting.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-079: Software
Configuration Management Plan (SCMP)
Develop and maintain a Software Configuration
Management Plan (SCMP) that describes how configuration management activities
will be conducted.
2. SWE-080: Configuration
Item Identification
Identify and document configuration items,
including software, tools, and associated documents.
3. SWE-081: Baseline
Establishment
Establish and maintain baselines for
configuration items at appropriate milestones.
4. SWE-082: Change
Control
Implement a change control process to manage
modifications to configuration items.
5. SWE-083: Configuration
Status Accounting
Maintain records of the status and history of
configuration items, including changes and approvals.
6. SWE-084: Configuration
Audits
Conduct configuration audits to ensure
compliance with SCM processes and verify the integrity of configuration items.
7. SWE-085: Version
Control
Use version control systems to manage software
and documentation changes.
8. SWE-135: Safety-Critical
Configuration Management
Apply additional controls for safety-critical
configuration items, ensuring traceability and integrity.
Outputs
of the Software Configuration Management Process:
1. Software
Configuration Management Plan (SCMP):
A detailed document outlining SCM practices,
tools, and roles.
2. Configuration
Item List:
A comprehensive inventory of all identified
configuration items.
3. Baselines:
Established baselines for requirements, design,
code, and other deliverables.
4. Change
Requests and Reports:
Documentation of requested changes, their
approvals, and implementation details.
5. Version
Control Repository:
A repository maintaining all versions of
software and documentation.
6. Configuration
Audit Reports:
Results from audits verifying compliance with
SCM processes and standards.
7. Status
Accounting Reports:
Logs and reports detailing the status, history,
and changes of configuration items.
Software Configuration
Management ensures that NASA software development projects maintain rigorous
control over all artifacts, supporting traceability, integrity, and compliance
with NPR 7150.2D. Proper adherence to the applicable SWEs reduces risks, facilitates
collaboration, and enhances the overall quality and reliability of the
software.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Software Documentation, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Documentation
NPR 7150.2D
Software documentation is a
fundamental aspect of the software development lifecycle, ensuring that all
processes, plans, designs, tests, and outcomes are well-documented and
accessible. This documentation supports traceability, compliance, and collaboration
among stakeholders and serves as a reference for maintaining and evolving the
software over its lifecycle. NPR 7150.2D emphasizes the need for clear,
accurate, and comprehensive documentation to meet NASA s high standards for
safety-critical and mission-critical software.
Key Activities in Software
Documentation:
1. Planning
Documentation:
Develop plans to guide various aspects of the
software lifecycle, such as the Software Development Plan (SDP), Software
Configuration Management Plan (SCMP), and Software Verification and Validation
Plan (SVVP).
2. Requirements
Documentation:
Capture and document all software requirements,
including functional, performance, and safety-critical requirements, in the
Software Requirements Specification (SRS).
3. Design
Documentation:
Document the software architecture and detailed
design in the Software Design Document (SDD) to guide implementation.
4. Test
Documentation:
Create test plans, test cases, and test reports
to verify that the software meets its requirements.
5. Traceability
Documentation:
Maintain a traceability matrix linking
requirements to design, implementation, and testing to ensure comprehensive
coverage.
6. Operational
and Maintenance Documentation:
Provide user manuals, operator guides, and
maintenance instructions to support software usage and upkeep.
7. Configuration
Management Documentation:
Record all configuration items, changes,
baselines, and version histories in the Software Configuration Management Plan
(SCMP).
8. Safety-Critical
Documentation:
Include hazard analysis, risk mitigation
strategies, and safety-critical requirements documentation.
9. Lessons
Learned:
Document issues encountered during development
and their resolutions to inform future projects.
10.
Compliance Reporting:
Prepare reports to demonstrate adherence to NPR
7150.2D and other applicable standards and guidelines.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-013: Software
Documentation
Document software processes, plans, and results
throughout the development lifecycle.
2. SWE-015: Software
Requirements Documentation
Document all software requirements and maintain
their traceability.
3. SWE-058: Software
Design Documentation
Document the software design, including
architecture, modules, and interfaces.
4. SWE-061: Implementation
Documentation
Ensure the software implementation is
documented, including source code comments and related information.
5. SWE-066: Software
Test Documentation
Document test plans, procedures, and results to
verify and validate software functionality.
6. SWE-071: Bidirectional
Traceability Documentation
Maintain documentation of traceability between
requirements, design, implementation, and tests.
7. SWE-079: Software
Configuration Management Plan
Document the configuration management process,
including change control and version tracking.
8. SWE-086: Maintenance
Documentation
Document procedures and strategies for software
maintenance and updates.
9. SWE-104: Safety-Critical
Software Documentation
Document safety-critical requirements,
mitigations, and analyses.
10.
SWE-190: Verification
and Validation Documentation
Provide detailed records of verification and
validation activities and results.
Outputs
of Software Documentation:
1. Software
Development Plan (SDP):
Guides the software lifecycle, including
schedules, roles, and processes.
2. Software
Requirements Specification (SRS):
Captures functional, performance, and
safety-critical requirements.
3. Software
Design Document (SDD):
Details the architecture, components, and
interfaces.
4. Test
Plans, Procedures, and Reports:
Verify and validate software functionality
against requirements.
5. Traceability
Matrix:
Links requirements to design, code, and tests.
6. Configuration
Management Records:
Tracks configuration items, changes, and
baselines.
7. Operational
and Maintenance Manuals:
Provide end-user and maintenance support.
8. Safety-Critical
Analysis Documentation:
Includes hazard assessments and risk
mitigations.
9. Compliance
Reports:
Demonstrates adherence to NPR 7150.2D and other
relevant standards.
10.
Lessons Learned:
Insights for process improvement and future
projects.
Proper software documentation
ensures transparency, compliance, and continuity across NASA projects. By
adhering to the SWEs, teams can produce high-quality documentation that
supports all stakeholders and ensures the software meets NASA s rigorous requirements
for safety and mission success.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Software Safety, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Safety
NPR 7150.2D
Software Safety is a critical
discipline focused on identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks associated
with software that could affect the safety of NASA s mission, personnel, or
assets. For software used in safety-critical systems, NPR 7150.2D requires
rigorous processes to minimize hazards and ensure compliance with safety
standards. The Software Safety activities ensure that potential risks
introduced by software are identified early and addressed throughout the
software lifecycle.
Key Activities in Software
Safety:
1. Identification
of Safety-Critical Software:
Determine whether the software is classified as
safety-critical, based on its potential to cause or contribute to a hazard.
2. Hazard
Analysis:
Conduct hazard analyses to identify risks
associated with software functionality and interactions with hardware and other
systems.
3. Risk
Mitigation:
Implement design and coding practices to reduce
risks, such as redundancy, fault tolerance, and fail-safe mechanisms.
4. Safety
Requirements Development:
Define specific safety requirements to address
identified hazards and ensure the software performs reliably in safety-critical
scenarios.
5. Verification
and Validation (V&V):
Verify and validate safety requirements,
including testing under worst-case scenarios and fault conditions.
6. Change
Impact Analysis:
Assess the safety implications of any changes
made to safety-critical software during development or maintenance.
7. Safety-Critical
Design Practices:
Apply coding standards, design techniques, and
tools specific to safety-critical systems, such as formal methods or static
analysis.
8. Safety
Testing:
Perform rigorous testing to ensure the software
responds correctly to failures or unexpected inputs.
9. Safety
Documentation:
Document all safety-related requirements,
analyses, mitigations, and testing to support traceability and compliance.
10.
Independent Reviews:
Conduct independent assessments and reviews of
safety-critical software to identify potential weaknesses.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-134: Safety-Critical
Software Requirements
Identify and document safety-critical software
requirements and ensure traceability.
2. SWE-135: Safety-Critical
Software Practices
Apply specific practices for safety-critical
software, including design, coding, and testing standards.
3. SWE-136: Safety-Critical
Design Techniques
Use design techniques such as fault tolerance,
redundancy, and fail-safe mechanisms for safety-critical software.
4. SWE-190: Verification
and Validation of Safety-Critical Software
Conduct rigorous verification and validation
activities specific to safety-critical software requirements and functions.
5. SWE-184: Safety
Hazard Tracking
Track and manage hazards associated with
safety-critical software.
6. SWE-183: Safety-Critical
Software Testing
Perform extensive testing, including stress and
fault injection testing, to ensure the safety and reliability of critical
systems.
7. SWE-086: Safety-Critical
Software Maintenance
Ensure safety-critical considerations are
maintained during software updates and changes.
8. SWE-187: Safety-Critical
Failure Modes
Analyze potential failure modes and their
impact on safety-critical operations.
9. SWE-184: Safety
Hazard Mitigation
Identify and implement mitigation strategies to
reduce risks.
10.
SWE-192: Independent
Reviews for Safety-Critical Software
Conduct independent safety reviews for
compliance and reliability.
Outputs
of Software Safety Activities:
1. Hazard
Analysis Reports:
Detailed documentation of hazards identified
and analyzed for the software.
2. Safety
Requirements:
Documented safety-specific requirements linked
to system-level hazards.
3. Safety
Test Plans and Reports:
Test plans, procedures, and results specific to
safety-critical scenarios.
4. Safety
Compliance Reports:
Demonstrations of compliance with
safety-related SWEs and standards.
5. Safety
Documentation:
Traceable documentation of safety analyses,
mitigations, and testing activities.
6. Change
Impact Analysis Reports:
Analysis of how software changes affect
safety-critical requirements and mitigations.
7. Safety
Audit Reports:
Independent assessments of safety-critical
aspects of the software.
Importance of Software Safety:
Software Safety ensures the
software's contribution to overall system safety by proactively identifying and
mitigating hazards. Compliance with NPR 7150.2D safety-related SWEs supports
NASA s mission success, protects personnel and assets, and upholds public
confidence in NASA s safety practices.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Software Assurance and Quality, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Assurance and Quality
NPR 7150.2D
Software Assurance and Quality focuses
on ensuring that software is developed and maintained to meet NASA s high
standards for reliability, safety, and performance. This area involves
systematic monitoring, evaluation, and improvement of processes and products to
ensure they meet mission requirements. Software assurance ensures compliance
with standards, reduces risks, and promotes the delivery of high-quality,
safety-critical software.
Key Activities in Software
Assurance and Quality:
1. Process
Assurance:
Verify that software development processes
adhere to NASA policies, standards, and approved plans.
Identify deviations and recommend corrective
actions.
2. Product
Assurance:
Evaluate software deliverables, including
requirements, design, code, and test results, for quality and completeness.
3. Safety
Assurance:
Ensure that safety-critical software meets
specific requirements and incorporates hazard mitigation strategies.
4. Verification
and Validation (V&V):
Independently verify and validate that the
software meets all requirements and performs as intended.
5. Configuration
and Change Management Oversight:
Monitor configuration and change management
activities to ensure proper tracking and control of software artifacts.
6. Metrics
Collection and Analysis:
Gather and analyze metrics to evaluate the
effectiveness of software assurance and quality processes.
7. Independent
Assessments and Audits:
Conduct independent reviews, audits, and
assessments of software processes and products.
8. Testing
Oversight:
Review and validate test plans, procedures, and
results to ensure comprehensive test coverage and compliance with requirements.
9. Noncompliance
and Risk Reporting:
Identify, document, and report any
noncompliance with requirements or risks that could affect software quality or
safety.
10.
Continuous Process Improvement:
Identify opportunities for improving software
development and assurance processes based on lessons learned and metrics
analysis.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-032: Software
Assurance
Conduct software assurance activities to verify
compliance with processes and standards.
2. SWE-033: Software
Quality
Ensure the quality of software products and
processes through systematic reviews and monitoring.
3. SWE-058: Verification
of Design Compliance
Verify that software design complies with
requirements and standards.
4. SWE-066: Test
Plan and Procedures Assurance
Review and approve test plans and procedures to
ensure they adequately verify requirements.
5. SWE-071: Traceability
Assurance
Ensure bidirectional traceability is maintained
between requirements, design, code, and testing.
6. SWE-079: Configuration
Management Oversight
Monitor software configuration management
activities for compliance.
7. SWE-090: Independent
Verification and Validation (IV&V)
Conduct IV&V for software projects as
required by their classification or risk level.
8. SWE-134: Safety
Assurance for Critical Software
Ensure safety-critical software meets specific
assurance requirements.
9. SWE-141: Process
Compliance Monitoring
Monitor and ensure compliance with approved
software development processes.
10.
SWE-181: Independent
Reviews
Perform independent reviews and audits to
ensure quality and compliance.
Outputs
of Software Assurance and Quality Activities:
1. Software
Assurance Plan:
A document describing assurance activities and
responsibilities throughout the software lifecycle.
2. Audit
and Review Reports:
Findings and recommendations from independent
reviews and audits.
3. Noncompliance
Reports:
Documentation of deviations from requirements
or standards and corrective actions taken.
4. Metrics
Reports:
Analysis of software metrics such as defect
density, test coverage, and compliance rates.
5. Risk
Analysis Reports:
Identification and assessment of risks
affecting software quality and safety.
6. IV&V
Reports:
Results of independent verification and
validation activities.
7. Test
Assurance Documentation:
Records of test plan reviews, testing
oversight, and validation of test results.
8. Safety
Assurance Records:
Documentation of safety-related assurance
activities, including hazard analyses and mitigation verification.
Importance of Software
Assurance and Quality:
Software Assurance and Quality
ensures that all NASA software meets stringent mission-critical and
safety-critical standards. By adhering to the applicable SWEs, teams can
identify risks early, ensure compliance, and deliver reliable, high-quality
software that meets mission objectives while protecting personnel, assets, and
stakeholders.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe the
Software Maintenance phase, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Maintenance Phase
NPR 7150.2D
The Software
Maintenance phase focuses on sustaining the software after it has been
delivered and is operational. This phase ensures the software remains
functional, reliable, and aligned with mission objectives by addressing
defects, implementing enhancements, and adapting to changes in the operating
environment or requirements. NPR 7150.2D emphasizes a systematic and controlled
approach to software maintenance, particularly for safety-critical and
mission-critical systems.
Key Activities in the Software
Maintenance Phase:
1. Problem
Reporting and Analysis:
Document and analyze issues reported during the
software s operational use, including defects, performance problems, and user
feedback.
2. Corrective
Maintenance:
Fix defects or errors identified in the
software during operation.
3. Adaptive
Maintenance:
Modify the software to adapt to changes in the
operating environment, such as hardware upgrades, OS updates, or changes in
external interfaces.
4. Perfective
Maintenance:
Implement enhancements or improvements to the
software to meet new requirements or improve performance and usability.
5. Preventive
Maintenance:
Identify and address potential issues
proactively to prevent future problems.
6. Impact
Analysis:
Assess the potential impact of proposed changes
on the software s functionality, safety, and performance.
7. Configuration
and Change Management:
Use configuration management processes to
control changes, track versions, and ensure proper documentation.
8. Regression
Testing:
Test the software after changes to ensure that
existing functionality is not adversely affected.
9. Verification
and Validation (V&V):
Re-verify and re-validate modified software to
confirm it meets requirements and continues to perform safely and reliably.
10.
Documentation Updates:
Maintain and update all relevant documentation,
such as user manuals, configuration records, and maintenance logs, to reflect
changes.
11.
Safety-Critical Considerations:
Address specific safety-critical requirements,
including hazard analyses and mitigation strategies, during maintenance
activities.
12.
Lessons Learned:
Capture and document lessons learned during
maintenance to improve future processes.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-075: Problem
Tracking and Resolution
Establish and maintain a system for tracking
and resolving software issues.
2. SWE-085: Configuration
Management for Maintenance
Maintain configuration management processes to
track changes to software and associated artifacts.
3. SWE-086: Maintenance
Procedures
Develop and implement procedures for software
maintenance, including corrective, adaptive, and perfective actions.
4. SWE-134: Safety-Critical
Maintenance
Address safety-critical requirements and
hazards during maintenance activities.
5. SWE-136: Impact
Analysis for Safety-Critical Changes
Conduct impact analysis for changes to
safety-critical software.
6. SWE-141: Change
Management Oversight
Ensure changes are reviewed, approved, and
implemented in a controlled manner.
7. SWE-183: Maintenance
Testing
Conduct appropriate testing, including
regression testing, for modified software.
8. SWE-190: Verification
and Validation for Maintenance
Re-verify and re-validate software after
changes to ensure continued compliance with requirements.
9. SWE-192: Independent
Reviews for Maintenance
Perform independent reviews of maintenance
activities to ensure compliance with processes and standards.
Outputs
of the Software Maintenance Phase:
1. Maintenance
Logs:
Records of all maintenance activities,
including problem reports, resolutions, and updates.
2. Updated
Documentation:
Revised user manuals, configuration records,
and other artifacts reflecting maintenance changes.
3. Change
Requests:
Documented requests for changes, including
justifications and impact analyses.
4. Regression
Test Results:
Evidence that existing functionality was
unaffected by changes.
5. Configuration
Item Updates:
Updated versions of configuration items under
maintenance control.
6. Safety-Critical
Analysis Reports:
Hazard analysis and risk mitigation
documentation for safety-critical changes.
7. Lessons
Learned Reports:
Insights and recommendations for improving
future maintenance activities.
Importance of the Software
Maintenance Phase:
The Software Maintenance phase
ensures the software continues to perform effectively, safely, and reliably
throughout its operational life. For NASA s mission-critical and
safety-critical systems, this phase is crucial for addressing changes in
requirements or environments while ensuring continued compliance with NPR
7150.2D. Proper adherence to applicable SWEs ensures systematic and controlled
maintenance activities, reducing risks and maintaining software quality.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Project Management, and list applicable SWEs.
Project Management
NPR 7150.2D
Project Management in
the context of NPR 7150.2D involves the planning, execution, monitoring, and
control of software development activities to ensure that projects meet
technical, cost, and schedule requirements. It focuses on coordination between
stakeholders, allocation of resources, management of risks, and adherence to
NASA's software engineering standards. Effective project management ensures
that all software lifecycle phases are executed efficiently and in compliance
with NPR 7150.2D.
Key Activities in Project
Management:
1. Project
Planning:
Develop a Software Development Plan
(SDP) to define the project scope, objectives, schedule, resources,
and processes.
Include requirements for risk management,
quality assurance, and configuration management.
2. Stakeholder
Management:
Identify and engage stakeholders to ensure
their needs and expectations are understood and managed.
3. Resource
Management:
Allocate personnel, tools, and budget to meet
project requirements.
4. Risk
Management:
Identify, analyze, and mitigate risks
throughout the project lifecycle.
5. Schedule
and Cost Management:
Develop and maintain schedules to meet project
milestones and control costs to stay within the budget.
6. Requirements
Management:
Ensure software requirements are well-defined,
documented, and traceable throughout the project.
7. Quality
Assurance and Control:
Implement quality assurance processes to
monitor compliance with NPR 7150.2D and other applicable standards.
8. Configuration
and Change Management:
Oversee the identification, control, and
tracking of configuration items and changes.
9. Progress
Monitoring and Reporting:
Track project progress using metrics, reviews,
and audits.
Report status to stakeholders and NASA
management.
10.
Independent Reviews:
Conduct reviews such as Preliminary Design
Reviews (PDR), Critical Design Reviews (CDR), and Test Readiness Reviews (TRR)
to ensure project milestones are met.
11.
Problem Reporting and Resolution:
Establish processes to track and resolve issues
identified during development and testing.
12.
Post-Project Analysis:
Document lessons learned and conduct
post-project reviews to improve future projects.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-013: Software
Plans
Develop, document, and maintain software plans,
including the Software Development Plan (SDP).
2. SWE-020: Project
Schedule
Establish and maintain a project schedule that
supports software development activities.
3. SWE-021: Risk
Management
Implement a risk management process to
identify, analyze, and mitigate risks.
4. SWE-022: Metrics
Collection and Analysis
Collect and analyze metrics to monitor project
progress and quality.
5. SWE-032: Software
Quality Assurance
Implement quality assurance processes to ensure
compliance with requirements and standards.
6. SWE-033: Tracking
and Oversight
Track project activities to ensure adherence to
plans and schedules.
7. SWE-080: Configuration
Management
Establish and maintain configuration management
processes for software artifacts.
8. SWE-141: Process
Compliance Monitoring
Monitor compliance with approved software
engineering processes.
9. SWE-181: Independent
Assessments
Conduct independent reviews and assessments to
evaluate project progress and adherence to requirements.
10.
SWE-131: Contractor
Oversight
Monitor contractor activities to ensure
compliance with NPR 7150.2D and project requirements.
Outputs
of Project Management Activities:
1. Software
Development Plan (SDP):
A comprehensive plan detailing scope,
objectives, schedules, and resources.
2. Risk
Management Plan:
Documentation of identified risks, mitigation
strategies, and status.
3. Project
Schedule:
A timeline of activities, milestones, and
deliverables.
4. Metrics
Reports:
Analysis of project progress, defect density,
test coverage, and other metrics.
5. Configuration
and Change Records:
Logs and reports of configuration items,
baselines, and approved changes.
6. Review
Reports:
Findings and recommendations from independent
reviews and milestone reviews.
7. Problem
Tracking Logs:
Documentation of issues and their resolution.
8. Stakeholder
Communication Records:
Documentation of interactions, agreements, and
updates shared with stakeholders.
9. Lessons
Learned Report:
A summary of experiences and recommendations to
improve future projects.
Importance of Project
Management:
Project Management ensures
that software projects meet NASA s technical, safety, and mission-critical
requirements. Adherence to the applicable SWEs ensures that software
development activities are executed systematically, risks are minimized, and
deliverables meet quality and schedule expectations. This disciplined approach
supports the success of NASA s high-stakes missions.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Software Metrics and Reporting, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Metrics and Reporting
NPR 7150.2D
Software Metrics and Reporting is
a key activity in software engineering under NPR 7150.2D. Metrics are
quantitative measures used to monitor and assess the health, progress, and
quality of software development projects. Reporting ensures stakeholders and
management have accurate, timely information to make informed decisions and
maintain control over project outcomes. Metrics and reporting processes are
vital for identifying risks, ensuring compliance, and driving improvements
throughout the software lifecycle.
Key Activities in Software
Metrics and Reporting:
1. Metric
Identification and Planning:
Define metrics to measure software performance,
progress, quality, and risks.
Identify key performance indicators (KPIs)
aligned with project goals.
2. Data
Collection:
Gather data from various software development
processes, such as requirements management, testing, and defect tracking.
3. Metrics
Analysis:
Analyze collected data to identify trends,
anomalies, and areas for improvement.
Compare metrics against benchmarks or expected
outcomes.
4. Progress
Monitoring:
Track progress toward milestones using metrics
like schedule adherence, task completion rates, and resource utilization.
5. Quality
Assessment:
Use metrics such as defect density, code
coverage, and rework rates to assess the quality of software deliverables.
6. Risk
Management Support:
Identify and track risks using metrics related
to schedule delays, defect backlogs, or testing progress.
7. Regular
Reporting:
Produce periodic reports that summarize metric
findings and provide actionable insights.
Share reports with stakeholders to ensure
transparency and alignment.
8. Metrics
for Process Improvement:
Use metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of
software development processes and recommend improvements.
9. Compliance
Monitoring:
Track metrics to verify compliance with NPR
7150.2D and other applicable standards.
10.
Lessons Learned Documentation:
Analyze and document metrics post-project to
improve future planning and execution.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-022: Metrics
Collection and Analysis
Collect, analyze, and report software
development metrics to monitor project progress and quality.
2. SWE-032: Quality
Assurance Metrics
Use metrics to assess and ensure software
quality throughout the development lifecycle.
3. SWE-033: Project
Tracking and Oversight
Use metrics to monitor and track project
activities, ensuring adherence to plans and schedules.
4. SWE-060: Design
Metrics
Analyze metrics related to software design
quality, including complexity, modularity, and maintainability.
5. SWE-071: Traceability
Metrics
Use metrics to track and ensure traceability
between requirements, design, code, and tests.
6. SWE-080: Configuration
Management Metrics
Track metrics related to configuration
management activities, such as change requests and version control.
7. SWE-086: Maintenance
Metrics
Monitor metrics during the maintenance phase to
track defect resolution and software updates.
8. SWE-181: Independent
Assessments
Include metrics as part of independent reviews
and assessments to provide objective measures of progress and quality.
Outputs
of Software Metrics and Reporting:
1. Metrics
Plan:
A document specifying the metrics to be
collected, methods for data collection, and analysis techniques.
2. Regular
Metrics Reports:
Reports summarizing metrics such as defect
trends, schedule adherence, test progress, and code quality.
3. Dashboard
Visualizations:
Graphical representations of metrics to provide
real-time insights into project health.
4. Risk
Metrics Reports:
Reports highlighting risks identified through
metrics, such as schedule delays or defect backlogs.
5. Quality
Metrics Reports:
Documentation of quality measures like defect
density, rework rates, and code coverage.
6. Compliance
Metrics Reports:
Evidence of adherence to NPR 7150.2D
requirements, based on tracked metrics.
7. Lessons
Learned Documentation:
Insights and recommendations for improving
metrics usage and reporting processes.
Importance of Software Metrics
and Reporting:
Software Metrics and Reporting
provide objective, data-driven insights into the health, progress, and quality
of software projects. By adhering to the applicable SWEs, project teams can
make informed decisions, identify risks early, and ensure compliance with
NASA s stringent standards. Metrics and reporting also support process
improvement and the achievement of mission-critical objectives, ensuring
project success.
Per NPR 7150.2D, describe
Software Acquisition, and list applicable SWEs.
Software Acquisition
NPR 7150.2D
Software Acquisition refers
to the processes and activities involved in procuring software from external
suppliers to support NASA s projects. This includes selecting contractors,
defining requirements, managing contracts, and ensuring the delivered software
meets NASA s safety, quality, and performance standards. NPR 7150.2D
establishes guidelines for managing software acquisition to ensure compliance,
traceability, and successful integration into NASA s systems.
Key Activities in Software
Acquisition:
1. Requirement
Definition:
Clearly define software requirements, including
functional, performance, safety-critical, and interface requirements.
Ensure requirements are well-documented and
traceable.
2. Supplier
Selection:
Evaluate and select suppliers based on their
ability to meet technical and quality standards, as well as past performance.
3. Contract
Development:
Develop contracts specifying deliverables,
standards, milestones, quality metrics, and compliance with NPR 7150.2D.
4. Supplier
Oversight:
Monitor the supplier s progress to ensure
adherence to contractual requirements, schedules, and standards.
5. Supplier
Processes and Standards Compliance:
Verify that suppliers follow approved software
development and assurance processes.
6. Verification
and Validation (V&V):
Independently verify and validate
supplier-delivered software to ensure it meets NASA requirements.
7. Configuration
Management:
Ensure suppliers implement proper configuration
management processes to track changes to software and related artifacts.
8. Test
Oversight:
Review supplier test plans, procedures, and
results to verify compliance with requirements.
9. Defect
Tracking and Resolution:
Collaborate with suppliers to track, report,
and resolve defects during development and delivery.
10. Acceptance
Testing:
Conduct final testing to confirm the delivered
software meets all specified requirements and is ready for integration.
11. Integration
and Maintenance Planning:
Plan for integrating supplier-delivered
software into NASA systems and managing its maintenance lifecycle.
Applicable
NPR 7150.2D Software Engineering Requirements (SWEs):
1. SWE-027: Software
Acquisition Planning
Develop and maintain plans for acquiring
software from external suppliers.
2. SWE-028: Supplier
Requirements Compliance
Ensure that the supplier s software development
processes comply with NPR 7150.2D.
3. SWE-029: Contract
Requirements
Include specific technical, safety, quality,
and process requirements in contracts.
4. SWE-030: Supplier
Risk Management
Identify, analyze, and manage risks associated
with acquiring software from suppliers.
5. SWE-131: Supplier
Oversight
Monitor supplier activities to ensure
compliance with contract requirements.
6. SWE-133: Supplier
Testing Oversight
Review and validate supplier test plans,
procedures, and results.
7. SWE-139: Acceptance
Criteria
Define and verify acceptance criteria for
supplier-delivered software.
8. SWE-141: Independent
Verification and Validation (IV&V)
Perform IV&V activities on
supplier-delivered software, if required.
9. SWE-183: Defect
Resolution
Ensure defects identified during supplier
testing or delivery are tracked and resolved.
10. SWE-185: Supplier
Configuration Management
Verify that suppliers follow robust
configuration management practices.
Outputs
of Software Acquisition Activities:
1. Acquisition
Plan:
A plan detailing the strategy for acquiring
software, including requirements, supplier selection criteria, and oversight
processes.
2. Supplier
Contracts:
Contracts specifying technical requirements,
milestones, deliverables, and compliance expectations.
3. Requirements
Documentation:
Detailed requirements provided to suppliers to
guide development.
4. Oversight
Reports:
Reports documenting supplier progress,
compliance issues, and corrective actions.
5. Test
Results and Analysis:
Documentation of supplier test results and
NASA s independent verification and validation activities.
6. Defect
Tracking Logs:
Records of identified defects, their
resolutions, and their impact on the delivered software.
7. Acceptance
Test Results:
Evidence that the delivered software meets
NASA s acceptance criteria.
8. Configuration
Management Records:
Documentation of configuration items,
baselines, and changes during the acquisition process.
Importance of Software
Acquisition:
Software Acquisition ensures
that externally procured software meets NASA s stringent safety, performance,
and mission-critical requirements. Proper management of acquisition activities
minimizes risks, ensures compliance with NPR 7150.2D, and delivers high-quality
software that integrates seamlessly into NASA systems. By adhering to the
applicable SWEs, NASA ensures that supplier-delivered software aligns with the
agency s technical and operational standards.