This class (software engineering) allows CS students to gain real world experience by pairing groups of students with you, the potential client. It also gives students a chance to apply software engineering principles in the development of a large scale project. The class extends over two semesters (August to May).

This is an opportunity for the students to work in a team-oriented development environment and on a large project. Considering that almost all software in the industry is developed this way, it is valuable experience that cannot be learned any other way.

A chance to get some free, custom made software! For example, if there is some aspect of your business or organization that could be helped by a software program, but you haven't had the time or resources to get it done, well, this is your chance. If you employ software developers, it gives you a chance to work with potential future employees.

Your main responsibility is to provide the requirements for the software that you want developed. Likely, this will require you to meet with the team about once a month. If possible, you should test the software to see if it meets your needs. You will also need to sign off on the software periodically.

Try to make your requirements as clear as possible. The main obstacle for you and the teams is the communication of the requirements. The clearer they are, the more likely it is that the project will meet your expectations. Also, if at all possible, try to avoid adding or changing requirements late in the process.

This is a student project. As such, neither Ball State University nor the students who are involved in the project can make any warranties with respect to outcomes. While most of our student projects are successful, success depends on a number of factors that are outside our control. Copyright in the developed software remains with the developers, unless you make different arrangements.