A Light-Weight Defect Classification Scheme for Embedded Automotive Software Development

Objective: Systematic software defect documentation is an essential part of software development process models as a means of early identification of patterns in defect inflow. Such documentation, however, may often be a tedious task requiring analysis work in addition to what is necessary to resolve the issue. Furthermore, generic defect documentation approaches often have a strong focus on source-code aspects making them unsuitable for development contexts with supplier-side implementation. To increase documentation efficiency in a development context with limited access to source-code, adapted schemes are needed. In this paper a light-weight defect classification scheme adapted to automotive software development is presented. Method: A case study was conducted at Volvo Car Corporation to adapt the IEEE Std. 1044 for the development of embedded automotive safety features. Results: The results consist of a detailed description of a defect classification scheme that complies with the IEEE Std. 1044. The main adaptations to the scheme consisted of raising the level of abstraction of the captured data items, shifting the focus from source-code to other artefacts and activities, and by conforming to the terminology of the company. Conclusions: We conclude that the IEEE Std. 1044 can be successfully adapted to a development context where source-code is not the main development artefact. Furthermore, initial evaluation showed that the adapted classification scheme captures what is currently tacit knowledge and has the potential of revealing patterns in the defects detected in different project phases. As a result we are currently in the process of incorporating the classification scheme into the company’s defect reporting system.