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January 26, 2005

Enterprise Reuse Activities

Define Reuse and a Process for Reuse
Reuse means many things to many people. We should establish a clear definition of what reuse is and the expectations of the program. Reuse will have implications into the SDLC and Project Planning standards.

Publish Guidelines for Building Reusable Artifacts
We learned that building reusable components is much more complex and demanding than simply having reusable code. Each asset type may have different requirements for availability, capacity, and many other dimensions.

Establish Reward Incentives to Reuse
Implement performance incentives that encourage reuse; PMP, development plans, etc.

Define Reuse Metrics and ROI Frameworks
Expanding the metrics and ROI frameworks will go along way in establishing the success of a reuse plan. If the main objective is to improve quality, lower costs, and reduce time to market then we will need some form of measurement program.

Develop a Reuse Maturity Model in Order to Establish a Vision/Plan
Programs like disaster recovery, quality assurance, and software delivery have benefited greatly with the establishment of a maturity model. A reuse model might include different perspectives like: reuse methodology, reuse technology, reuse management and reuse culture.

Engage Partners/Vendors to Supply Reusable Assets
Time and time again we fail to gain access to reusable assets with software solutions. The check list or vendor directives should include the access, definition and capability of the assets included in vendors’ products as well as solution providers.

Establish a Formal Training Program around the basics of Reuse
A communication plan is needed in order to market, sell, and brand the concepts of reuse.

Review the Current Metadata Strategy and Recommend Improvements
The Metadata Strategy needs to be reviewed in order to ensure the development of solid inventory of assets system. Incremental improvements are a great thing but a reuse program may require holistic review.

Remember – Incrementalism is Innovation Worst Nightmare

Posted by Todd at January 26, 2005 4:39 PM