Delegation in Global Software Teams: Leading or Managing?

Abstract

Global teams are an important work structure in software development projects. However, little is known about how to handle the conflicting roles a global software team manager should play when delegating. This study investigated delegation practices in global software teams. It was found that global software team managers delegate more like a manager than a leader by delegating primarily to competent remote team members. In this paper, we explore the reasons behind such practices and offer suggestions on how to improve delegation decisions in global software teams.