Analyzing and Evaluating the Main Factors that Challenge Global Software Development

Abstract

Global Software Development (GSD) projects are characterized by the fact that work is distributed throughout many geographically distanced sites. Software engineering activities in such scenarios face various challenges. Although interpersonal communication is crucial if a common understanding with regard to the system under construction is to be achieved, time separation, cultural diversity and economical factors make it impossible for face-to-face meetings to take place. In this paper, we introduce a basis for analyzing those aspects that might cause communication problems in GSD environments and suggest some strategies to reduce misunderstandings among stakeholders, with the aim of improving distributed projects.