HW 3

10.6 Explain why it is reasonable to assume that the use of dependable processes will lead to the creation of dependable software.

It is a reasonable assumption because using a dependable process involves using explicitly defined procedures to ensure that through the task of creating the software that its requirements are being met. It also helps ensure a low to non existence error rate and to ease time spent debugging. Other tasks involved in a dependable process include: formal specification, system modeling, inspections, static analysis, testing, etc. All these different procedures come together to form a check and balance system that will ensure the integrity of your software.

10.10. It has been suggested that the need for regulation inhibits innovation and that regulators force the use of older methods of systems development that have been used on other systems. Discuss whether or not you think this is true and the desirability of regulators imposing their views on what methods should be used.

In the ACM Code of Ethics, section 1.2 is titled “avoid harm.” It then goes on to discuss that even when your actions are well-intended they could still cause harm as to why certain regulations should be taken into consideration. a regulator could force the use of an older system of development due to it being considered more profitable than experimenting with a newer model, or regulators could also enforce an older model due to it generating a “safe” product.