This Assignment assesses the following module Learning Outcomes (Take these from the module DMD):

1. the range of individual products and processes that exist within a complex software engineering project;

2. the selection of appropriate models and measures that can be applied to software engineering products and processes.

1b –Problems producing software

There continues to be problems with producing software despite the introduction of process models in the software development process. Using TWO case studies that you have studied on the module discuss how the software production process failed and the consequences of the failure.

2. Function Points

You are a software project manager for a company which develops bespoke software systems, competing against others on the basis of price and delivery time. Your boss has told you that she has been told by a friend at the gym that Function Points are a great way of measuring the size of a software system. She says that she would like to know more about them. Provide a detailed explanation as to what Function Points are. Using examples found through your own research describe the advantages and disadvantages of using function points and where there are disadvantages describe alternative approaches that could be taken. Include in your discussionyour opinion as to whether your company should adopt Function Point counting, supported by the evidence you have stated. Justify all claims made, these must be well-supported by your evidence and argument.

Submission Requirements:

Students are required to submit ONE file of their work via Canvas no later than 1500 hours (UK time) Thursday 14th November 2019. Work which fails to follow these submission requirements will gain zero marks. The standard lateness penalties will be applied to late work.The file submitted via Canvas must be in the form of a Microsoft Word document. The filename is to include: student id, followed by a hyphen, followed by MMSE, for example 0123456-MMSE.

The submission should be submitted in the following format:

The main text should not exceed 4,500 words (excluding references). You may include graphics and photos and captions these are not included in the word count. The text should be in a consistent font, either 11 or 12 point Times New Roman or Arial. Each page of the submission must be on one side of the A4 paper with a 2cm margin at the left and right and 2.5 cm margin at the top and bottom, and students’ names, student registration number, pair letter (allocated by your tutor) and module should appear at the bottom of each page along with the page number.

See mark allocation per task above.

A note to the Students:

1. For undergraduate modules, a score above 40% represent a pass performance at honours level.
2. For postgraduate modules, a score of 50% or above represents a pass mark.
3. Modules may have several components of assessment and may require a pass in all elements.
For further details, please consult the relevant Module Guide or ask the Module Leader.

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