The Status of Maintainability Models: A Critical Review 1

Abstract

Significant milestones in the development of maintainability assessment techniques are summarized. Maintainability models are critically reviewed in terms of general utility, ease of application, validity, and use of human engineering data. The capability of each model to be employed during various points in the system development cycle is evaluated with special consideration given to availability of model input data. Examples of potential model approaches are included. Survey results show continuing progress toward the potential development of efficient maintainability modeling techniques. However, increased effort is required to ensure the development of effective systems and to reduce maintenance costs. Emphasis is given to requirements for additional effort in (1) maintainability modeling early in the design process, (2) model validation, and (3) development of timely, valid input data.