One of the major problems with software development processes is their complexity. Hence, one of the primary motivations in process improvement is the simplification of these complex processes. We report a study to explore various simplification approaches and techniques. We used the available process documentation, questionnaires and interviews, and a set of process visualization tool fragments (pfv) to gain an understanding of the process under examination. We then used three basic analysis techniques to locate candidates for simplification and improvement: value added analysis, time usage analysis, and alternatives analysis. All three approaches proved effective in isolating problem areas for improvement. The proposed simplifications resulted in a savings of 20 % in cost, 20% in human effort, 40 % in elapse time, and a 30% reduction in the number of activities
