Surfing the Edge of Chaos: Applications to Software Engineering

Abstract

This paper discusses the problems of software engineering as the weakest link in the development of systems capable of achieving information superiority. Fast changes in technology introduce additional difficulties in terms of strategic planning, organizational structure, and engineering of software development projects. In such complex environment, a new way of thinking is required. We analyze the introduction of complex adaptive systems as an alternative for planning and change. The strategy of "competing on the edge" is analyzed showing the risks and the skills required navigating on the edge. We discuss the feasibility of using this theory in software engineering as an alternative to bureaucratic software development processes. We present also some recommendations that could help to acquire competitive advantage in software development, hence achieve information superiority.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2000
Accession Number
ADA462161

Entities

People

  • Carl Jones
  • Juan C. Nogueira

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • C4I
  • Human Systems
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Adaptive Systems
  • Business Administration
  • Classification
  • Complex Adaptive Systems
  • Complex Systems
  • Computer Programming
  • Computers
  • Computing System Architectures
  • Engineering
  • Information Exchange
  • Network Architecture
  • Organizational Structure
  • Risk Analysis
  • Self Organizing Systems
  • Software Development
  • Software Metrics
  • Spiral Development

Fields of Study

  • Computer science
  • Engineering

Readers

  • Database Systems and Applications
  • Systems Analysis and Design