Contents of Case Study Results

Case Study Results

The results presented in this section are the statistical averages computed from the team member assessment responses and post-assessment questionnaires (25 team members from 3 case studies).

Figure 1 illustrates the computed average per critical success factor for the expected impact on the organization's reuse capability from fully satisfying the associated goals. Nearly all of the factors were judged as having a moderate to high impact on an organizations reuse capability. This result is one indicator as to whether the RCM captures the factors critical to improving an organization's reuse capability.

**Figure:** Critical Success Factor Impact Data
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In addition, the post-assessment questionnaire asked the participants to rate the following statements on a scale of 1-strongly disagree, 2-disagree, 3-neutral, 4-agree, 5-strongly agree. The average response is indicated.

The Reuse Capability Model covers the process issues most critical to effective software reuse. Average response = 4.3
The reuse capability assessment accurately identified my organization's reuse process strengths and improvement opportunities. Average response = 4.4
The reuse capability assessment is a cost-effective technique for understanding an organization's reuse process and planning improvements. Average response = 3.8

Two case study groups had also suggested the addition of a critical success factor addressing intergroup coordination and communication. Some participants rated the effectiveness somewhat lower because they believed they already had a good understanding of their process. However, they indicated the assessment would be more effective for organizations who are just beginning to implement a reuse program.

Although the Consortium does not view these results as proof of validity, it is encouraged that these results indicate its reuse adoption technologies are a step in the right direction. Further study will be conducted primarily through reuse adoption pilot projects. The lessons learned from the case studies and pilot projects will be worked into the next version of the Reuse Adoption Guidebook.