We're in the very particular business of Aircraft Simulation, specifically integrating real parts in a custom made simulation environment for pilots to train in. The products get certified based on functionality/realism level (Level D which requires motion/feel/view), thus we have very few low-level documentation requirements as compared to typical Aircraft design. We do test the platforms internally pretty correctly as they get audited by FAA/EASA autorities before certification. In the end, however, we end-up maintaining, updating and re-certifying the many-years-old platforms with the authorities for pretty much the full flying life of the fleet of planes we simulate, and for each of the updates delivered, often struggling to figure out the architecture of our old platforms (or our competitors even, as we provide updates for theses too).

Thanks for your input!

Do you work as instrument engineer in power plant industry? I'm not quite sure what kind of project that you have to use IEEE SWEBOK?