Session 5.5 - Postmortem Data Collection
Chapter 10: The Postmortem | Duration: 1 hr
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Explain why accurate postmortem data is essential
- List the data items/forms to complete (time, size, defects, SUMP/SUMQ)
- Capture data with minimal gaps and lag
- Prepare for analysis and future cycle planning
Introduction
Postmortem learning depends on good data. Chapter 10 highlights collecting complete, timely data so teams can analyze performance and improve in the next cycle.
Why Postmortem Data?
- Enable honest assessment of quality, schedule, and productivity.
- Support realistic estimates for future cycles.
- Reveal where process changes will pay off.
Data to Collect
| Item | Description/Forms |
|---|---|
| Time | Planned vs. actual by task/phase; personal and team (TASK/SCHEDULE, WEEK). |
| Size | LOC or other size measures for products delivered. |
| Defects | Phase injected/removed, type (PSP standard), fix time; logged via LOGD/INS/TEST. |
| Quality & Summary | SUMP/SUMQ forms; test results; review/inspection yields. |
Data Accuracy & Tools
Keep Data Clean
- Enter data promptly; avoid end-of-cycle reconstruction.
- Use the TSPi support tool for consistency and automatic summaries.
- Cross-check totals (time vs. plan; defects vs. logs) before analysis.
Summary
- Accurate, timely data is the foundation of postmortem learning.
- Collect time, size, defects, and summary forms (SUMP/SUMQ).
- Use tools and prompt entry to prevent gaps and errors.
- Prepare clean data for meaningful analysis in the next session.