· A formal technical review (FTR) is a software quality control activity performed by software engineers (and others)
· The objectives of an FTR are:
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- To uncover errors in function, logic, or implementation; for any representation of the software
- To verify that the software under review meets its requirements
- To ensure that the software has been represented according to predefined standards
- To achieve software that is developed in a uniform manner
- To make projects more manageable
· During the FTR, a reviewer (the recorder) actively records all issues that have been raised.
· These are summarized at the end of the review meeting, and a reviewed issues list is produced.
· In addition, a formal technical review summary report is completed.
· Steps in FTR
- The review meeting.
- Review reporting and record keeping.
- Review guidelines.
Guideline for review may include following things
- Concentrate on work product only. That means review the product not the producers.
- Set an agenda of a review and maintain it.
- When certain issues are raised then debate or arguments should be limited. Reviews should not ultimately results in some hard feelings.
- Find out problem areas, but don’t attempt to solve every problem noted.
- Take written notes (it is for record purpose)
- Limit the number of participants and insists upon advance preparation.
- Develop a checklist for each product that is likely to be reviewed.
- Allocate resources and time schedule for FTRs in order to maintain time schedule.
- Conduct meaningful trainings for all reviewers in order to make reviews effective.
- Reviews earlier reviews which serve as the base for the current review being conducted.