What is an IS auditor's responsibility when evaluating software development practices?

When evaluating software development practices, an IS auditor plays a crucial role in analyzing interactions between quality assurance (QA) and project management. This responsibility is significant because effective communication and coordination between these two areas are vital for the successful delivery of software projects.

Quality assurance is responsible for ensuring that the software meets specified requirements and is free from defects. On the other hand, project management focuses on managing timelines, resources, and project scopes. By examining how these groups interact, an auditor can identify potential issues or inefficiencies that could affect the quality and success of the software development process. For instance, if QA is not adequately involved early in the project management process, there may be a higher risk of releasing subpar products or requiring costly revisions later on.

This evaluation also helps ensure that best practices are followed, promoting a culture of quality and accountability throughout the software development lifecycle. Thus, understanding and analyzing the dynamics between QA and project management aids in identifying opportunities for improvement and risk management in the software development process.