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An optimal software debugging model

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Abstract

This paper deals with the question of optimal debugging times for large-scale computer programs, given certain assumptions concerning the distribution of error within the program, the cost that is incurred whenever a fault occurs, and the cost of debugging. Modeling takes place within the framework of independent Poisson processes describing faults caused by errors. The optimization aim is to minimize the long-run total expected discounted cost. Some general results concerning the optimal polity are presented.

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References

  1. S.M. Ross, Statistical estimation of software reliability, IEEE Trans. Software Eng. SE-11(1985) 479–483.

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  2. N.S. Wee, Optimal maintenance schedules of computer software, Prob. Eng. Info. Sci. 4(1990) 243–257.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Computer Sciences, University of Ulm and FAW, D-7900, Ulm, Germany

    F. J. Radermacher

  2. Department of Industrial Engineering and Operations Research, University of California, 94720, Berkeley, CA, USA

    S. M. Ross & N. S. Wee

Authors
  1. F. J. Radermacher
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  2. S. M. Ross
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  3. N. S. Wee
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Additional information

This research has been supported by NATO Grant No. RG.86/0024, by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, and by the University of Passau, Germany.

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Radermacher, F.J., Ross, S.M. & Wee, N.S. An optimal software debugging model. Ann Oper Res 32, 141–163 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02204832

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02204832

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