Quality Management for Embedded Software

Project quality management is applicable to all projects irrespective of their products. Because embedded systems are designed for real-time computing with or without human intervention, it is necessary to follow quality processes rigorously and aim for continuous improvement. In Juran’s Quality Handbook, 5th edition, quality pioneer Joseph M. Juran states that quality means “features of products which meet customer needs and thereby provide customer satisfaction.” When the customer can’t specify the complete wants and needs of the project at the start, then they need to evolve through incremental development. This case occurs more frequently in software development, when the customer is not able to visualize the outcome of the software development. In some cases, it is possible to develop a prototype or simulate the conditions to arrive at the characteristics requirement; however, there are many real-time scenarios that cannot be simulated. The only feasible and reliable solution in all cases is adhering to quality processes as defined. In this article, we will see how and what needs to be considered for embedded software development to plan, execute, and control quality.

Demand in embedded software has grown tremendously, resulting in competitive market conditions. This has added pressure on all stakeholders to deliver products early to market …