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Distributed and Outsourced Software Engineering
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:24:48
Abstract
The Distributed and Outsourced Software Engineering (DOSE) course introduces the software engineering principles and techniques appropriate for this new paradigm of software development. In line with the "distributed" nature of the topic, the DOSE course is conducted in collaborationwith other universities in various countries, who participate in the project with ETH students.
Objective
This course provides students with a clear view of distributed software development, enabling them to participate successfully in distributed projects, and also helping them to devise their own career strategies in the context of the continued trend towards outsourcing.
Content
Industrial software construction is, increasingly, a distributed activity. The scenario of a single team working in a single location for a set period, once the norm, is fast becoming the exception. The outsourcing and offshoring phenomenon, while an important part of this trend, is only one of the causes. The Distributed and Outsourced Software Engineering (DOSE) course introduces the software engineering principles and techniques appropriate for this new paradigm of software development. In line with the "distributed" nature of the topic, the DOSE course is conducted in collaborationwith other universities in various countries, who participate in the project with ETH students, enabling a hands-on approach to the issues of distributed development. Content: The DOSE course covers among others the following topics: basics of distributed development; the outsourcing phenomenon; requirements engineering for distributed projects; quality assurance for distributed projects; process models (especially CMMI) and agile methods; supplier assessment and qualification; negotiating a contract for a distributed project; software project management for distributed projects; role of interfaces and other technical issues of distributed development. A key part of the course is the course project, which is performed in groups involving teams from other universities. Students get to practice distributed developmemt directly, experiencing issues and applying techniques presented in the course.
Resources
Literature
Course slides and supporting articles.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DS , MSC , WBZ
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Distributed and Outsourced Software Engineering |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Distributed and Outsourced Software Engineering |
|
1 h weekly |