What This Document Is
This document is an assignment kit – specifically, Kit One S (Version 1) – for a graduate-level course (CSCI 599) at the University of Southern California focusing on specialized topics within software engineering. It appears to be part of a larger Personal Software Process Methodology (PPMP) exercise series, designed to build practical skills in software development and data analysis. The kit centers around the application of spreadsheet software as a tool for simulating and understanding the software development lifecycle. It’s structured to reinforce concepts taught in associated lectures (Lecture Number 1 is referenced).
Why This Document Matters
Students enrolled in advanced software engineering courses, particularly those focused on process improvement and empirical software engineering, will find this kit invaluable. It’s designed for practical application of theoretical concepts. Individuals preparing for roles requiring data-driven decision making in software projects, or those seeking to refine their spreadsheet skills within a software engineering context, will also benefit. This kit is most useful *after* initial instruction on the PPMP methodology and spreadsheet fundamentals, serving as a hands-on exercise to solidify understanding.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This kit is not a standalone learning resource. It heavily relies on prior knowledge of spreadsheet software (Excel 97 or higher is suggested) and assumes a foundational understanding of programming concepts. It does *not* provide detailed tutorials on basic spreadsheet functions; instead, it expects students to leverage existing skills and build upon them. The kit focuses on the *process* of using spreadsheets to model software development activities, not on mastering advanced spreadsheet features themselves. It also doesn’t offer pre-filled templates or solutions – the intention is for students to actively construct their own tools.
What This Document Provides
* Process scripts related to Planning, Development, and Postmortem phases of a software project.
* Forms and templates for project management, including Project Plan Summaries, Time Recording Logs, and Defect Recording Logs.
* Standards for defect categorization.
* Guidance on approaching the spreadsheet exercises, including assumptions about user proficiency.
* Operational guidance on using spreadsheets to simulate programming tasks.
* Hints and suggestions for effective spreadsheet design and data presentation.
* Direction on structuring assignment files and utilizing named regions within spreadsheets.
