Software Measurement & Metrics: Data-Driven Software Management

110 SWM

3 days. UPDATED 2008! Our SWM course introduces principles and provides practice in using software measurement in engineering and management decisions, for both software development and maintenance. You will gain familiarity with the use of software measurement to support better decisions on cost, schedule, and product tradeoffs. Case studies will be analyzed, and each participant will have opportunities to customize the material for their own organizational settings. In "hands-on" exercises you will apply these ideas to design or modify a measurement program appropriate for your specific needs.

Structured Software Testing and Continuous Quality Improvement

120 SST

4 days. UPDATED 2008! Software quality and reliability is something everyone wants. Companies strive to release quality products, users expect software that is reliable and easy to use, developers take pride in well written work product and managers know that quality equates to on-time and on-budget deliverables.

This course discusses effective and practical approaches to system program testing. A combination of lecture and exercises will teach the participant how to detect the maximum number of defects with a good mix of test cases. The course covers testing concepts and planning with an emphasis on effective testing. Other topics addressed are the role of testing in the Project Life Cycle, measurements to support test decision-making, and how the testing group interacts with other groups (such as Development and Configuration Management).

Practical Implementation of Software Configuration Management

1230 ICM

Prerequisite: Proof of 230 SCM completion or resume showing four consecutive years of SCM experience, subject to review by the instructor.

4 days. In our ICM course, you gain practical, comprehensive guidance in implementing detailed policies & procedures to produce an environment where SCM principles function effectively and efficiently. Course structure facilitates the tailored creation of policies and procedures as well as the related estimation methods and metrics for Software CM, Hardware CM and Documentation CM specific to your needs or project.

This course complies with DoD Directive 5000.1, ISO9000, ISO9001,SOX, CMMI, ISO, OMB Memorandum M-05-23, MIL-HDBK-61A and Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 404.

Certification Programs

STI offers Software Configuration Management Specialist (C.SCM.S) and Software Configuration Manager (C.SCM.M) certification through our SCM curriculum. Prerequisites for certification include 230 SCM and 1230 ICM followed by an open book certification exam. C.SCM.S applicants must request their examination within six months of completing 1230 SCM. C.SCM.M applicants must have a minimum of 5 years experience in the SCM field and a minimum of two years in an managerial SCM role before applying.

Software Subcontract Management

130 SSM

3 days. This course presents the current issues, procedures, tools and techniques for managing software subcontracts. It covers the types of trade-offs and decisions necessary to determine when a subcontract should be pursued, how to organize to subcontract and how to set up the project team to move forward with the subcontracting effort. It includes a discussion of the 18 criteria for a subcontracting decision and an exercise for applying these criteria to different situations. Participants will learn how to define what the end product is they wish to buy, the actual deliverables they will receive upon completion, the estimated cost for the subcontracted effort and techniques for determining that the end product meets the stated requirements.

Software Safety and Reliability Workshop

140 SSR

4 days. In this course, you will learn how to establish a successful software safety program. The course presents you with an understanding of the engineering practices and techniques used to produce and certify the reliability of safety-critical software. A variety of examples and case studies will reinforce the workshop's instructional material while “hands-on” exercises provide you with group experience in resolving safety issues in simulated system development projects. Under guidance, you will be required to individually assess and enhance the safety and reliability of critical software by using demonstrated methods.

ISO 9000 for Software Organizations

150 ISO

This three day workshop will prepare software engineering and software quality managers and practitioners to meet ISO 9001/9000-3/TickIT software quality management system standards.

Systems Engineering and Lifecycle Management with ISO/IEC 15288

171 15288

The tutorial provides an advanced introduction to both the management and technical aspects of systems engineering and guidance on how to apply the standard on organizations and projects and in agreements. It prepares them well for their work and for future pursuit of advanced education, if so desired.

Understanding and Applying ISO/IEC 12207

181 SWA

ISO/IEC 12207 (Information technology – Software life cycle processes) is the first international standard on software processes. The standard is intended to be employed to manage the acquisition, supply, development, operation, and maintenance of software. In addition, the standard may be applied to software improvement. Amendments 1 and 2 provide the basis for a software process reference model and a software process assessment framework as defined in ISO/IEC 15504-2 (Software process assessment).

Software Verification and Validation

190 SVV

4 days. Our SVV course covers the role of verification and validation throughout the software development life cycle. You will gain awareness of the issues, procedures and present practices for SVV and apply new knowledge and techniques to typical SVV issues through case studies and “hands-on” exercises.

Software Quality Assurance and Improvement

200 SQA

3 days. Our Software Quality Assurance course covers the vital issues and recommended procedures, practices and processes for the implementation of a Software Quality Assurance Program. You will develop awareness of Software Quality Assurance in software development environments and support practices. Emphasis is on adherence to established software development and support processes, software standards and the implementation of an effective project-oriented tailoring process. "Hands-on" exercises allow you to apply new knowledge and methods to typical Software Quality Assurance issues under the guidance of the instructor.

STI offers Software Quality Assurance Specialist Certification (C.SQA.S) through our 200 SQA curriculum. Prerequisites for certification include 200 SQA followed by an open book certification exam.

Practical Software Reuse

210 ISR

3 days. This workshop provides participants with practical guidance for putting emerging product line, architecture and software reuse concepts to work within their firms. Emphasis is placed upon exploiting operational concepts that have been used successfully within early adopter organizations to reduce risk and maximize benefits as they move on the road to high levels of maturity using the CMMI. . The seminar uses a variety of examples, case studies, exercises and workshops to reinforce its concepts and develop needed skills, knowledge and abilities.

Introduction to Software Engineering Institute (SEI) Capability Maturity Model (CMM)

220 CMM

This three day course presents a comprehensive overview of the Software CMM, developed by the Software Engineering Institute (SEI). The course material presents practical examples of how to meet CMM requirements, taken from techniques currently used by world class software organizations. Guiding principles are presented for project management, quality assurance, configuration management, corporate policies and process definition, and determining return-on-investment (ROI).

The course is recommended for senior managers, project managers, Software Engineering Process Groups (SEPGs), and software professionals who desire an in-depth understanding of software maturity principles.

Basic Software Configuration Management

225 BCM

2 days. The BCM course provides a broad look at Software Configuration Management from Project Day-1 through operation and maintenance phases of a systems life cycle in compliance with DoD Directive 5000.1, ISO9000, ISO9001,SOX, CMMI, ISO, OMB Memorandum M-05-23, MIL-HDBK-61A and Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 404. Build the foundation for process improvement through this integral software development and maintenance course.

This course does not qualify as a prerequisite for Software Configuration Management Specialist Certification through our Software Configuration Management curriculum. Prerequisites for certification include 230 SCM and 1230 ICM followed by an open book certification exam.

Advanced Software Configuration Management

226 ACM

2 days. In our ACM course, you gain practical, comprehensive guidance in implementing detailed policies & procedures to produce an environment where SCM principles function effectively and efficiently. Course structure facilitates the tailored creation of policies and procedures as well as the related estimation methods and metrics for Software CM, Hardware CM and Documentation CM specific to your needs or project.

This course complies with DoD Directive 5000.1, ISO9000, ISO9001,SOX, CMMI, ISO, OMB Memorandum M-05-23, MIL-HDBK-61A and Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 404.

This course does not qualify as a prerequisite for Software Configuration Management Specialist Certification through our Software Configuration Management curriculum. Prerequisites for certification include 230 SCM and 1230 ICM followed by an open book certification exam.

Software Configuration Management Fundamentals

230 SCM

4 days. The 230 SCM course provides a comprehensive look at Software Configuration Management from Project Day-1 through operation and maintenance phases of a system's life cycle in compliance with DoD Directive 5000.1, ISO9000, ISO9001,SOX, CMMI, ISO, OMB Memorandum M-05-23, MIL-HDBK-61A and Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 404. Build the foundation for process improvement through this integral software development and maintenance course. Successful completion required for SCM Certification eligibility.

STI offers Software Configuration Management Specialist Certification through our Software Configuration Management curriculum. Prerequisites for certification include 230 SCM and 1230 ICM followed by an open book certification exam. Learn more here.

Program Configuration Management Fundamentals

250 PCM

4 days. Our PCM course addresses the integration of processes - Program and Project-level Configuration Management (CM) and Data Management (DM) - with software (SW), hardware (HW), documentation and firmware (FW). You will gain awareness of the ways that policies and procedures, requirements, and interfaces affect integration over the course of a complete Program Life Cycle.

The course is designed to prepare CM professionals for management and group leadership of multiple Program and Project CM efforts. You will gain improved awareness of complex CM issues, from the Acquisition and RFP preparation phase through completion of Program and associated Project activities. You will be prepared for medium to large-scale systems development and maintenance where multiple organizations or companies are to be involved.

Software Project Planning and Management

260 SPM

3 days. In our SPM course you will analyze and discern the value of procedures, tools, and techniques for planning and managing successful software projects. This course examines the CMM/CMMI process areas of software project planning, tracking and oversight, as well as applicable standards and guidelines (DoDD 5000.1, DoDD 5000.2, DoD Defense Acquisition Guidebook, ISO and IEEE).

Requirements Management Workshop

280 SRM

4 days. In our SRM workshop you will learn the best approaches for managing customer's software requirements throughout the design, development, and maintenance phases of the software life cycle. With an emphasis on reusability and building more robust and less expensive software systems this workshop guides you through the analysis of various examples and case studies. You will acquire proven techniques to eliminate ambiguity in requirements, avoid ever-changing requirements, identify potential conflicts and deal with the "ripple effects" of changed requirements. Exercises provide an opportunity for practical application of gained knowledge and methodologies to analyze and manage requirements within different environments.

Large-Scale Agile Software Project Management

300 APM

3 days. This workshop is intended to provide both the novice and experienced manager with insights into how to use agile methods on large projects. It is scoped under the assumption that the work will be done by self-managed, collaborative teams. It is introductory in the sense that participants need not have a detailed knowledge of agile methods. It shows participants how to create a flexible infrastructure for executing software projects that are built in increments using state-of-the-art practices like pair programming and refactoring. The framework’s unifying philosophy is finding balance between discipline and agility. Rather than attempting to cover every nuance of project management, it furnishes a framework organizes knowledge about what works and what does not in practice. The framework centers on the five basic functions of management: planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling. Software estimating, risk management, metrics and measurement are covered in this context.

Large-Scale Software Project Management

310 LPM

3 days. This workshop is intended to provide both the novice and experienced manager with enough material to understand and use the basic theories, concepts, tools and techniques of software project management. It is scoped under the assumption that the work will be done by a geographically dispersed team from different organizations (teammates, subcontractors, etc.) It is introductory in the sense that participants need not have extensive experience in the field to apply its principles. It shows participants how to use a Work Breakdown Structures as the integrating infrastructure to plan, track and control software projects. Rather than attempting to cover every nuance of project management, it furnishes a framework that lets participants organize knowledge about the practice of software management, address the important issues and focus on the critical success factors. The framework centers on the five basic functions of management: planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling. Software estimating, risk management, systematic software reuse and technology management are covered in this context, as is the topic moving up the CMMI maturity profile.

Software Cost Estimation

320 SCE

2 days. This workshop introduces participants to the subject of software economics. Emphasis is placed on developing software cost estimating skills using the popular software cost estimating models (COCOMO II, PRICE S, SEER, SoftCost, etc.) in an objective manner. Use of models for developing estimates, performing “what-if” analysis, bounding risks, and conducting a variety of trade studies will be highlighted. The seminar uses a variety of examples, case studies, and hands-on workshops to develop estimating skills, knowledge and abilities. It uses example cost model runs using public domain packages like COCOMO II to highlight their use and value. It avoids using proprietary packages and information. Participants will leave the seminar fully prepared to develop or validate a software estimate.

Introduction to Scrum, Agile Methods and the Rational Unified Process

330 IRM

4 days. UPDATED 2008! Our Introduction to Scrum, Agile Methods and the Rational Unified Process (RUP) course provides a cross-functional understanding of key Agile development practices. Learn to create the correct Agile Software Development Life Cycle for your organization. Focus is on Scrum and the Rational Unified Process.

Equally valuable to new team members, Scrum Masters, RUP practitioners, project managers and product managers, the course explains:

• Agile process fundamentals
• The iterative development approach
• The application of Scrum
• How Scrum and the Rational process support each other

An excellent starting point for those planning to introduce Agile techniques in their organization. Learn both Scrum and the Rational methodology, the project life cycle's key development phases, and how to customize processes for small and large projects. Through examples and case studies learn how to avoid limitations and common mistakes. Apply techniques based on demonstrated methods in group exercises.

STI offers Rational Unified Process Specialist Certification through our RUP curriculum. Prerequisites for certification include 330 IRM followed by an open book certification exam.

Just looking for our Scrum Workshop presentation? STI also offers a 1 day Introduction to Scrum and Agile to get you up and running!

Scrum Workshop

331 IRM

1 day. Our Scrum Workshop is a rapid introduction to core Scrum principles. Participants will learn how Scrum differs from traditional project management, how it relentlessly exposes impediments, and how it enables the project team to eliminate those impediments. Fast-paced exercises and group activities provide hands-on experience so that every participant gains the maximum possible benefit from this workshop.

Become an Exceptional Leader

340 LDW

2 days. Leave a legacy that outlives your job. How you lead others has a huge impact on your career and the success of your business. The way in which you demonstrate your trust, share important information, coach your employees and reward great performers says a lot about who you are. When we ask leaders what legacy they want to leave, we always hear about their desire for strong working relationships and respect. This workshop will show you how some amazing leaders have achieved that and more. The workshop will include case studies, group discussions, small group work, self-assessment quizzes and experiential activities.

Leading Through Change

350 LTC

2 days. Leading others when the organization is going through change. When organizations grow, adding new services and taking on new business, employees are often expected to jump on the band wagon with joy. Yet for many the rapid changes paralyze, cause confusion and the progress that was eagerly anticipated is diminished. If you want to help employees cope with the changes that are thrust upon them, and build the capacity to manage uncertainty then you must attend this workshop. The workshop will include case studies, group discussions, small group work, self-assessment quizzes and experiential activities.

Handling Tough Performance Issues

360 LPI

1 day. Help poor performers get back on track. Do you wonder why some employees appear to be struggling with meeting goals? Do you have employees whose work is below expectations? Are your employees top performers one day and disappointing the next? Do you avoid dealing with sub-standard performance for fear of unpleasant repercussions? Do you hope the problem will fix itself? If so, then this workshop will take the pain out of those performance-related conversations through case studies, group discussions, small group work, self-assessment quizzes and experiential activities.

Building an Outstanding Team

370 LBT

2 days. Why cooperation and support matter for top performance. Every leader wants a winning team; a team of employees creating outstanding results and generally working in harmony. Leading one person is a breeze but leading a team takes highly tuned talent. A group of employees does not make a team – that takes work. If you want a group of people with different skills and interests to be transformed into a productive team then this workshop is for you. The workshop will include groups discussions and is highly experiential in nature. You will team up on small projects and learn by being engaged in team work. De-briefing the participant’s results will be a key element of this program.

Communication for the Business Leader

380 LBL

1 day. Develop the art of effective face to face conversation. Face to face communication is still the cornerstone of all relationships; regardless of how many times you use the phone, text message or email. The ability to interact appropriately with people is crucial for career and business success. Yet, many times challenges arise during the exchange of views and miscommunication is evident. If you want to improve your working relationships with people then your attendance at this workshop will give you solid techniques to help you form a strong, effective communication style. The workshop will include group discussions, small group work, simulations, self-assessment quizzes and experiential activities.

Preparing for Supervision

390 LPS

1 day. Getting off on the right foot. Have you ever wondered what your supervisor does all day? Have you wondered what goes on at all of those meetings? Do you think you might be cut out for supervision? Are you curious about what it’s really like? Is there a promotion on the horizon? Are you afraid to take the plunge? Find out if the role of supervision is for you.

Exceptional Customer Service

400 LCS

1 day. Building the WOW factor. Are your customers spreading the word about your business? Are they thrilled with the service they receive? Are your employees getting letters and cards thanking them for their service? No? Well, if you would like these results, then join us to learn about building in the WOW factor. Your staff will love the accolades and your customer base will expand through word of mouth advertising.

Masterful Meetings

410 LMM

1 day. Run productive meetings and stop wasting people’s time. A full 70 % of a manager’s week is spent in meetings and not very productive ones at that. If you find yourself going from meeting to meeting with things unresolved, it’s time for you to take charge. Make the meetings you run or the ones you attend productive, full of focussed dialogue, and ending with concrete action plans for the future. Say good bye to time wasting meetings forever. Learn how to make your meetings masterful.