What determines Software Quality?

Software development is a craft that continues to evolve very rapidly. We struggle to stay ahead of new technologies, deal with development backlogs, and cope with rapidly changing requirements. Not everyone is eager to change. It is easy to dismiss change requirements and improvement efforts. Therein lies the seeds of conflict, as some members of a team embrace new ways of working, while others mutter "over my dead body."

The culture of an organization is the most critical success factor in its software development efforts. "Culture" includes a set of shared values and principles that guide the behaviors, activities, priorities, and decisions of a group of people working in the same area. When coworkers align along common beliefs, it is easier to induce changes that will increase the group's effectiveness and its probability of survival.

In my experience an effective culture will improve:

• our effectiveness as software engineers
• the quality of our software
• the relationship and reputation we have with our customers
• our level of teamwork
• the enjoyment we obtain from coming to work every day

We share our philosophy with candidates during interviews. This makes it easier to select those who will easily assimilate into the team and support the values we've agreed upon.