Dealing with software process deviations using fuzzy logic based monitoring

Abstract

The work presented in this paper concerns the monitoring of software processes using a fuzzy logic based approach. The proposed monitoring for software processes focuses on the detection of deviations with respect to given models. The level of deviation is computed for different aspects of the process like progress, cost, structure (order between activities), etc. The proposed approach is implemented by the OMEGA environment (OMEGA stands for On-line Monitoring Environment: General and Adaptable). The environment provides a language for defining monitoring models. Such models are executed by the environment's engine. Fuzzy sets theory is used in the representation of the Information handled by monitoring systems, and possibility theory in the reasoning upon it. Fuzzy logic offers significant advantages over other approaches due to its ability to naturally represent uncertain and imprecise information. It equally provides a good framework for approximate reasoning. The use of the proposed monitoring environment is illustrated in the context of the Unified Software Development Process.