This document establishes a common process framework for describing the full life cycle of software systems from conception through retirement. It applies to the acquisition or development of software products and services whether performed internally or externally to an organization. Those aspects of software system definition needed to provide the context for software products and services are included. The document also supports the definition, control, assessment, and improvement of these processes.

This document establishes a common framework for software life cycle processes, with well defined terminology, that can be referenced by the software industry. It contains processes, activities, and tasks that are to be applied during the acquisition of a software system, product or service and during the supply, development, operation, maintenance and disposal of software products. This is accomplished through the involvement of stakeholders, with the ultimate goal of achieving customer satisfaction. Software includes the software portion of firmware. This document includes those aspects of system definition needed to provide the context for software system...

The purpose of this International Standard is to provide a defined set of processes to facilitate communication among acquirers, suppliers and other stakeholders in the life cycle of a software system. This International Standard is written for acquirers of software systems, products and services and for suppliers, developers, integrators, operators, maintainers, managers, quality assurance managers, and users of software systems and products. It can be used by a single organization in a self-imposed mode or in a multi-party situation. Parties can be from the same organization or from different organizations and the situation can range from an informal agree...