Knowledge-Oriented Software Engineering Process
In a Multi-Cultural Context
In the peer-reviewed article Knowledge-Oriented Software Engineering Process In A Multi-Cultural Context (Jaakkola, Heimburger, Linna, 2010) the authors contend that the accelerating nature of software development leaves little time for cultural assimilation and integration of teams to an optimal level. The authors have defined the specifics of how software development is changing very rapidly due to mobile platforms, cloud computing and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). Exacerbating the challenges of creating software so rapidly are the cultural challenges as well, especially the multicultural and inter-organizational issues of software engineering (Jaakkola, Heimburger, Linna, 2010). The authors argue that a three layer model is needed to increase the performance of software engineering globally (Jaakkola, Heimburger, Linna, 2010). The authors have taken on a very complex problem that takes into account the multifaceted nature of software development in large organizations while also managing the complexities and nuances of global development across cultures. The initial framework is exceptionally well-done with insights into how best to manage complex, high-speed projects. The authors succeed in this regard and their three-level model works well for fast-track application development.
Where the model breaks down is the lack of prescriptive insight into hwo best to use the Hofstede Model of Cultural Dimensions. The authors refer to these five dimensions and provide a depth of academic understanding of them that supports their model. Yet it is obvious the authors have yet to actually experience these cultural dimensions in regions of the world significantly different than their own. The entire paper therefore lacks clarity and precision that real experiences deliver. It stands as a fine theoretical analysis of software development yet needs an element of realism within it to make it useful.
References
Jaakkola, H., Anneli Heimburger, & Linna, P. (2010). Knowledge-oriented software engineering process in a multi-cultural context. Software Quality Journal, 18(2), 299-319.
