SPI-KM - Lessons learned from applying a software process improvement strategy supported by knowledge management

Software development organizations recognize the importance of improving software processes to enhance their competitive advantages. COPPE/UFRJ software process research group has been providing SPI consultancy services to the Brazilian software industry for more than two decades. In order to support the SPI activities of the group, a SPI deployment strategy named SPI-KM that is supported by Knowledge Management and has been developed based on international and national reference models and standards. This paper presents the SPI-KM strategy and the results of an empirical study executed aiming to characterize the SPI initiatives that employed it. The study findings are presented as lessons learned and their applications are discussed in different organizations. We consider the adoption of the SPI-KM strategy and the lessons learned as important knowledge to be appreciated during SPI initiatives aiming to facilitate SPI deployment and to assure their success.