As Agile software development comes of age, it's only natural that a complementary, Agile infrastructure take shape around it. The most recent development in the growth of support for Agile development is the recent launch of OpenUP, an extensible process for open, Agile-based software projects that applies an interative approach in a standard development lifecycle. This month, one of the principal creators of OpenUP, Per Kroll, introduces the new process, and, for those of you familiar with RUP, he describes key similarities and differences regarding the more established framework. We also explore a new dimension for your RUP-based projects known as "evolutions." Plus, we consider architectural asset reuse, security, and the steps some colleges are taking to encourage more students to enroll in computer science courses.
Cover story:OpenUP In a Nutshell, by Per Kroll
This article explores OpenUP, a recently developed process framework for software development, focused on agile practices derived from the Rational Unified Process. The author uses sidebar commentary to explain OpenUP to RUP-savvy readers.
Managing development of complex systems in products, by Joanne Friedman
Read this introduction to Agile Software Product Lifecycle Management and IBM Rational Integrated Change Management capability, a highly collaborative technology environment that offers manufacturers the opportunity to manage hardware and software development, mitigate risk, and improve value.
Understanding architectural assets, by Peter Eeles
This article discusses the various kinds of reusable assets available to the software architect, explains their characteristics and interrelationships, and offers tips on how best to make use of them.
Leading innovation
In the increasingly complex world of software and systems delivery, the Rational brand stands for business innovation and the best practices to help you succeed. Here we showcase the thought leadership and technical know-how that keep our customers on the competitive edge.
Delivering systems faster with less risk: The macro-iterative dimension of RUP, by Colin O'Neill
Organizations can extend the power of RUP by adding a macro dimension to the original notion of iterations. Using evolutions -- multiple, overlapping passes through the RUP lifecycle -- can reduce risk, greatly speed time to market, and improve resource allocation, claims O'Neill, who also proposes illustrations for depicting this macro-iterative dimension.
Securing your IT infrastructure from Klocwork, a Ready-for-Rational partner, by Gwyn Fisher
Secure programming, as well as the practice of securing an enterprise's IT infrastructure, is an exercise in risk management. There is no single solution to all possible vulnerabilities, but knowing what solutions are available, their limitations, and where they fit in the spectrum of possible risk mitigation activities will put you far ahead of the pack.
Webcasts, tutorials, demos, and more: September-October 2007, by The Rational Marketing Team
These dynamic, Web-based tutorials, demos, and trial downloads will introduce new concepts or help refresh your knowledge base. Check out this extensive listing of IBM Rational Web-based resources.
Achieve faster CMMI adoption
Hear what Forrester Research's Carey Schwaber and Wipro Technologies have to say about leveraging RUP Software Delivery Best Practices for CMMI. Register for the October 17 11am Webcast.
Where have all the CS majors gone?, by Gary Pollice
Recent trends among US colleges and universities showing reduced enrollment in computer science courses may cause some alarm. But there is also an opportunity for CS curriculum planners to revamp courses to reflect changing technologies and new employment opportunities.
