1. This standard establishes uniform requirements for software development that are applicable throughout the system life cycle. The requirements of this standard provide the basis for Government insight into a contractor's software development testing and evaluation efforts.
2. This standard is not intended to specify or discourage the use of any particular software development method. The contractor is responsible for selecting software development methods (for example rapid prototyping) that best support the achievement of contract requirements.
3. This standard together with the other DoD and military documents referenced in Section 2 provides the means for establishing evaluating and maintaining quality in software and associated documentation.
4. Data Item Descriptions (DIDs) applicable to this standard are listed in Section 6. These DIDs describe a set of documents for recording the information required by this standard. Production of deliverable data using automated techniques is encouraged.
5. Per DOD 5000.43, Acquisition Streamlining, this standard must be appropriately tailored by the program manager to ensure that only cost-effective requirements are cited in defense solicitations and contracts. Tailoring guidance can be found in DOD-HDBK-248 Guide for Application and Tailoring of Requirements for Defense Material Acquisitions.
