SCBAM-B: A C2M Based Assessment Method for Identifying the Maturity of Communication in Distributed Software Development

Abstract

Context: One of the leading challenges in Distributed Software Development (DSD) is to communicate correctly and promptly, as factors such as physical distance and lack of face-to-face contact can hinder this process. In this context, the Communication Maturity Model (C2M) was proposed as an option to support the improvement of communication in DSD. But this maturity model could not be effectively used in organizations, due to the absence a specific C2M based assessment method. Objective: This work aims to present the Standard C2M Based Assessment Method (SCBAM) in its basic dimension, the Basic Standard C2M Based Assessment Method (SCBAM-B). An assessment method to determine the maturity level of communication in DSD organizations, based on the C2M model. Method: The SCBAM-B was designed according to a methodology that included a review of the DSD literature, maturity and capacity models, evaluation methods, the development of a software tool, and evaluation with experts. Results: The SCBAM-B was perceived by experts as a relevant approach for assessing the communication level in organizations and propose a path for improvements. Conclusions: For being lightweight and capable of automation, the SCBAM-B has the potential to help the communication improvement in DSD organizations, in the light of the C2M model.