Reviews & Metrics for Software Improvements Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a practical introduction to using reviews and metrics for continuous software improvement, focusing on Agile practices and project visibility. Over approximately 6 hours, learners will explore techniques for measuring progress, conducting effective reviews, and improving software quality through data-driven insights. The course is self-paced and designed for working professionals seeking to enhance project outcomes through structured reflection and measurement.

Module 1: Right Product

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Conducting sprint review meetings
• Understanding user studies and their importance
• Examining industry examples to ensure product alignment with user needs

Module 2: Done Right

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Exploring review techniques and monitoring issues
• Understanding the Goal, Question, Metric (GQM) framework
• Analyzing defects to ensure product quality

Module 3: Managed Right

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Implementing Daily Scrum meetings effectively
• Understanding velocity and its role in project management
• Utilizing release and iteration burndown charts

Module 4: Project Retrospectives

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Conducting effective retrospectives
• Exploring retrospective exercises
• Summarizing course learnings

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic software development processes
• Basic understanding of Agile methodology
• Some exposure to project management concepts recommended

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Apply techniques to measure and visualize project progress
• Integrate Agile review practices to increase project visibility
• Reflect on lessons learned through retrospective exercises
• Improve project and process quality through ongoing measurement
• Analyze defects and use metrics to ensure product quality