Managing the acquisition of large and complex software systems is a difficult task. Obviously, there are many sources for risks that many hazard the success of an acquisition project. In this paper we discuss a method for assessing a risk situation at a very early stage of a software (acquisition) project in a structured way. The method, called "FIRMA", helps to identify risk areas. Based on a derived risk-profile, the method proposes adjustments to the risk management process and the overall acquisition process. The method was applied in several projects at DaimlerChrysler, Nokia and Novo Group. In this paper we describe first results of the validation of our method. First experiences have shown that FIRMA is not only a helpful instrument to collect initial risks, but also facilitates the introduction of formal risk management.
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