[Jtsummers]

Summary: Beta course to cover software systems safety from the perspective of DoD, attendees were contractors and civilians. Specifically covering MIL-STD 882E and related documents. Generally covering topics in software engineering and design that relate to safety.

It was a beta, and rough. The instructors were trying to be all things to all people. It hit too low level at times for the program office types who don't do any actual programming but need to know about design and safety considerations and processes. That was also (somewhat) redundant for the programmers in the group. It was, however, informative as we discussed topics related to this book (why I brought it up in class), and software engineering principles (from safety and reliability perspectives) that the new programmers and non-programmers weren't aware of.

The intention is to teach this material rather than rely on people absorbing it (poorly) on the job, which is how it's typically done now for software. Processes exist, but people don't understand them. Techniques get used, but people forget why. This is intended to raise the bar across the board (or provide an opportunity to) so that safety and is more thoroughly integrated into the design and development process.

I'm not sure what else to add. If you want to discuss more, I may respond here, but you can also email me (username at gmail).