Determining Adequate Sample Size for Process
and Work Product Audit by Sumita Dubey & Ambrish K Srivastava
Abstract
Software Development Organizations that have no history with performing Process and
Product Quality Assurance (PPQAϯ) audits usually ask how often they should be auditing
their processes and work products. Some organization may opt for 100% coverage
whereas some opt for sampling on the basis of criticality. Inappropriate, inadequate, or
excessive sample sizes continue to influence the quality and accuracy of audit results.
This paper describes the model for determining sample size for process and work product
audit considering attributes which impact the selection of sample size for the audit with
acceptable sampling risk. A table is provided that can be used to select the sample size
based on the level of acceptable sampling risk the organization is willing to accept.
