Software Development Process Improvement in Datacom Platform
Abstract
Ericsson Mobile Platform (EMP) is responsible of the development of a software platform
and also to some extend responsible for related hardware parts. EMP is developing the data
communication parts of the platform which is used by EMP customers. The platform
development is done in large development programs and each program span over a quite a long
time period. However, as we see every day in the shops mobile phone manufactures are
launching new models more or less every month. EMP has many different mobile phone
manufactures on its customer list and in order to meet their requirements/wishes, they need to add
new functionality to the platform. The platforms are going to be released in the very near future
or are half way in the development or in the start up process. The simple image that summarizes
the problem is that adding new functionality to projects, which are in the conclusion phase, is not
easy without delaying the project.
Thus, our intention in this thesis is to study how new functionalities in datacom platform
could be added without jeopardizing the existing architecture of the running development
projects of Ericsson. A solution that achieves fast process with high quality output and handles a
customer requirement (CR) has been proposed in an efficient way. This is done by looking into
current processes, working methods, tools, etc... Afterwards, a new mechanism has been
investigated based on Test-Driven Development (TDD) as a main practice in Extreme
Programming (XP). TDD is a method that recommends writing the tests at the same time, or even
before the function to be tested. Verification of the proposed solution that explores an
improvement in software development process is done by analysing, designing and implementing
a new functionality related to Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). The performance has been
demonstrated first by spending less time in development phase. Thus, customer satisfaction can
be reached with reducing time to market. In addition, writing high quality code within minor
errors and bugs has been noticed. Consequently, improving product quality and reducing the cost
of project can be achieved.
Description
Masteroppgave i Informasjons- og Kommunikasjonsteknologi 2008, Universitetet i Agder, Grimstad