Abstract

[This abstract is based on the author's abstract.]

The software industry lags far behind other industries in embracing quality initiatives and striving for continuous improvement, as evidenced by scheduling problems, cost overruns, and defective products. Such problems often arise from both lack of training and management focus on sticking to unrealistic project schedules. Without management involvement, best practices are not identified and supported. The economic impact of defective software is estimated at 1% of U.S. gross domestic product. The suggestion is made that software customers demand the same type of product recall that is required of automobile manufacturers. Examples are included to illustrate the ways in which having non-defective software is important to businesses.