Software Subcontract Management (2 or 3 day course)

The purpose of software subcontract management is to select and manage software subcontractors effectively, in order to take delivery of a product or service. This workshop takes the participants through the major steps of sub-contract management from initial evaluation of potential subcontractors, through contract award, tracking and then to acceptance and maintenance. Potential pitfalls are described. Practical techniques and methods that can be applied are outlined and used by the participants in the "hands-on" sessions. Each participant leaves with a personal action plan.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this workshop you will be able to:

• Increase the probability of taking delivery of a software subcontract on time and within budget
• Evaluate potential software subcontractors
• Develop plans for managing subcontractors
• Apply techniques for tracking and control subcontractors
• Understand what the SEI Capability Maturity Model requires in relation to the software subcontract manager role

Level and Orientation of Audience:

Those responsible for evaluating, awarding and managing software subcontracts e.g. Project Managers, Software Quality Assurance Professionals and Senior Developers.

Topics Covered

Introduction

• Common pitfalls of subcontracting software

Evaluation

• Techniques for assessing the subcontractor's capability
• Performing Risk Analysis

Subcontract Establishment and Planning

• Identifying appropriate contractual levers
• Negotiating conditions
• Defining the work to be done
• Developing a Subcontract Management Plan

Monitoring and Controlling

• Communication and progress reporting
• Managing change
• Tracking interim deliverables / staged prototypes
• Role of joint reviews

Delivery

• Acceptance of the subcontract
• Maintenance and support

Industry Standards and SW Subcontract Management

• Practical aspects of industry standards that are useful for the SW Subcontract Manager
• Key processes that support SW subcontract management

Action Planning