Critical Software Components

In software construction, we usually use software libraries. A classic mistake in projects is to minimize the importance of those libraries as a software item, thus the software behavior can be compromised.

Typical problems:

Unexpected results/behavior

Possible causes:

• Not considering the library as part of the architecture/design.
• Not having the right version of the library in a release.
• Not considering license statements (typical commercial use).
• Modifying the library without tracking changes (and also combined with licensing issues regarding modifications).

What to do:

• Check license terms with a specialist and/or apply tools whenever appropriate.
• Add the component as a configuration item in your configuration management plan and repository.
• Manage the library like any other component regarding its process cycle (development, V&V, approval, baseline)
• Trace the right version to the released software.
• Test it whenever applicable.