High-quality software through semiformal specification and verification

Abstract

Semi-formal specification and verification in the style of the cleanroom method, combined with testing, have proven to be exceptionally effective in reducing the number of defects in software, as well as being cost-effective in practice. A course based on these principles is described, and the results of class projects and projects by graduates of the course are presented. These results provide evidence that cleanroom techniques, as adapted for the course, are indeed effective, and that these techniques can be taught successfully, even to undergraduates.