This handbook defines methods for process assessment and improvement that may be used to meet the requirements on process assessment and improvement of the ECSS-Q-ST-80C subclause 5.7. These methods constitute a clear and proven way of implementing those requirements. Alternative methods can be used provided that they meet the detailed instructions provided in this handbook for recognition of software process assessment schemes and results and process improvement.

This handbook provides a detailed method for the implementation of the requirements of the ECSS-Q-ST-80C for software process assessment and improvement. It also establishes detailed instructions for alternative methods intended to meet the same ECSS-Q-ST-80C requirements.

The process assessment and improvement scheme presented in this handbook is based on and conformant to the ISO/IEC 15504 International Standard. In designing this process assessment and improvement scheme the ISO/IEC 15504 exemplar process assessment model was adopted and extended to address ECSS specific requirements.

The methods provided in this handbook can support organizations in meeting their business goals and in this context they can be tailored to suit their specific needs and requirements. However when used to claim compliance with relevant requirements in ECSS-Q-ST-80C only the steps and activities explicitly marked as recommended in this handbook may be omitted or modified.