V-model
Over the years (with some pain), the OTS building process has improved for many reasons. Mainly, OTS suppliers have gained experience and some standards have started to be developed so teams don't have to reinvent the wheel every time a new OTS project is executed. Computers becoming more powerful has improved the process for sure. The simulators started becoming more realistic and more reliable.
I have used the well-known V-model in the projects that I have delivered, and this has proven to be very successful. In this chapter, I will explain how this model works and how it can be adapted for OTS projects. For more information, please see the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) safety software standards 61508-3.
The preceding diagram shows the V-model that I adapted to the OTS build process. The left leg of the V represents a set of written specifications in...