Degrees of rigor

Degrees of Rigor

The degree of rigor is a function of many project characteristics. As an example, small, non-mission critical projects can generally be addressed with somewhat less rigor than large, complex mission critical applications. It should be noted, however, that all projects must be conducted in a manner that results in timely, high quality deliverables.

Four different degrees of rigor are defined for the APM:

Casual. All APM framework activities are applied, but only a minimum task set is required. In general, umbrella tasks will be minimized and documentation requirements will be reduced. All basic principles of software engineering are still applicable.

Structured. The APM framework will be applied for this project. Framework activities and related tasks appropriate to the project type will be applied and umbrella activities necessary to ensure high quality will be applied. SQA, SCM, documentation and measurement tasks will be conducted in a streamlined manner.

Strict. The APM will be applied for this project with a degree of discipline that will ensure high quality. All umbrella activities will be applied and robust documentation will be produced.

Quick Reaction. The APM will be applied for this project, but because of an emergency situation, only those tasks essential to maintaining good quality will be applied. "Back-filling" (e.g., developing a complete set of documentation, conducting additional reviews) will be accomplished after the application/product is delivered to the customer.