Software systems are now major parts of every important human occupation including communication, manufacturing, education, transportation, government, medicine and more, and yet software systems have often become one of the most troubling technologies of the century. Why is that with the development of some large software systems, there are often cancellations, delays, and cost overruns, while others software projects are completed early, are within budget, and have few if any quality problems?

This book will explain why some software systems fail and what you can do to salvage them before they mean critical disaster. It ultimately provides an indepth look at all the factors which affect development, and suggests ways in which to minimize risks and maximize successes.