Process maturity and inspector proficiency: feedback mechanisms for software inspections

Recent research suggests that people related issues account for as much as 50% of explained sources of variation in software code inspections and that process related issues account for less than 30%. This paper examines the impact of two feedback mechanisms (process maturity and inspector proficiency) on square inspections. Results of a survey of thirty-one experienced software developers and follow-up interviews are presented. Key findings include that significant process variations appear to exist within relatively mature organizations and that teams own inspection processes. The paper also addresses the significance and potential of feedback mechanism research. The findings extend to other formal technical reviews and provide insights into managing different-place, different time inspections.