Process Model Integration in Internet-based Virtual Software Corporations

This paper presents initial results for defining a method to integrate process models and supporting tools for the support of software development in Internet-based Virtual Software Corporations (VSCs). VSCs are emerging as the organisational form enabling the development of complex, large scale software. However, due to the heterogeneous and temporary nature of VSC interactions, no dedicated software engineering environments exist that would support VSC processes. In this paper we present an approach for specifying, reusing and integrating the processes of VSC member companies. The practical applicability of the framework is validated for an experimental VSC. The resulting process model is enacted using a commercial Internet-based e-mail workflow management package. NOTE: This work is part of the VISCOUNT Esprit Project.