The design and development of software process reference models – experiences and lessons learnt

Software process reference models can serve as a tool for simplifying process problem solving. Through a series of research phases using sources in industry and academia, we developed a software process reference model for the derivation of products from a software product line. In this paper we describe how empirical evidence was used in the development of that process reference model while following an evolutionary multi-method research approach. A discussion on the selection of research methods for construction of process reference models is included. We explain how the different phases of the research formed a continuum in which the model was continually adjusted. Finally, we document important lessons learnt on software process reference model construction. The goal of this paper is to contribute to both the improved understanding of real world reference model construction and to the practical implementation of reference model construction guidelines.