%0 Journal Article
%T Applying a Goal Programming Model to Support the Selection of Artifacts in a Testing Process
%A Andreia Rodrigues da Silva
%A Fernando Rodrigues de Almeida JšČnior
%A Placido Rogerio Pinheiro
%J Advances in Software Engineering
%D 2012
%I Hindawi Publishing Corporation
%R 10.1155/2012/765635
%X This paper proposes the definition of a goal programming model for the selection of artifacts to be developed during a testing process, so that the set of selected artifacts is more viable to the reality of micro and small enterprises. This model was based on the IEEE Standard 829, which establishes a set of artifacts that must be generated throughout the test activities. Several factors can influence the definition of this set of artifacts. Therefore, in order to consider such factors, we developed a multicriteria model that helps in determining the priority of artifacts according to the reality of micro and small enterprises. 1. Introduction According to the Ministry of Science and Technology of Brazil, about 60% of software development enterprises in this country are classified as micro and small enterprises [1, 2]. In order to remain on the market, these companies need to invest significantly in improving the quality of their products because of the inherent complexity of the software development activity, which depends mainly on the interpretation skills of those involved. For that reason, this activity is susceptible to various issues, including the possibility of developing software other than what is expected by the user. In this context, the test activity is fundamental in supporting the quality assurance of products. However, it is important to note that according to the estimates obtained in recent years, 50% of development costs are allocated to software testing [3] and, in the scenario of micro and small enterprises (MSEs), where resources availability is limited, software testing activities are reduced or, in many cases, eliminated [4], because of the lack of skilled professionals in the area, the variety of techniques existing, and the difficulty of implementing a testing process. These companies do not have the necessary capital to hire such professionals, besides not having the know-how of testing techniques and having much difficulty to deploy a testing process practical enough. A variety of micro and small enterprises still do not have a formal testing process and even have the ability to implement a process that meets the needs and ensure the correct execution of activities. Generally testing activities, when included in the development process of software these companies are carried out by developers or system analysts. These professionals do not have knowledge about the techniques and testing criteria and, therefore, cannot benefit from the application of the techniques most appropriate to the context of the organization and the
%U http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ase/2012/765635/