SYSTEMS INTEGRATION THROUGHOUT THE EARLY-LIFE CYCLE

This paper presents various methodologies and approaches for performin g systems integration and testing throughout the early and middle stag es of the development life cycle. It discusses techniques for estimati on and management of the integration early life cycle. Prevention and early detection of errors significantly reduces the cost of failure in a system. The systematic use of quality gates throughout the life cyc le reduces the propagation of problems. The appropriate use of documen tation standards ensures information and knowledge is disseminated to all those who require it. These and other techniques for effective con trol of integration and rest are discussed, together with techniques f or measuring the effectiveness of systems integration, such as test co verage analysis, metrics, and post-delivery assessment.