Critical Success Factors for Large and Distributed Agile Software Development Projects Using Scrum in U.S.-Based Global Companies

Abstract

This study expands upon research previously conducted on critical success factors for the implementation of agile software development methodologies. The purpose was to examine the relationships between 12 independent variables, representing possible critical success factors for agile software development projects (Management Commitment, Organization Environment, Team Environment, Team Capability, Customer Involvement, Project Management Process, Project Definition Process, Agile Software Engineering Techniques, Delivery Strategy, Project Nature, Project Type, and Project Schedule); and the dependent variable of project success, consisting of four dimensions (Quality, Scope, Time, and Cost). Participants in the study included 132 practitioners in U.S.-based global companies that have served as product owner, Scrum master, software developer, business analyst, and/or tester, for a completed large and distributed agile software development project using Scrum methodology. Graphical and quantitative data analysis techniques served to examine the study research model and test the hypotheses. Findings from data analysis support that all 12 critical success factors have an impact on the successful resolution of agile software development projects using Scrum methodology in U.S.-based global companies; however, with differing levels of significance. The results reflect all 12 factors are not significant for one or more of four dimensions of project success. Also, results support that five of the 12 critical success factors are significant; however, of these, three ranked higher than the others, and showed a significant effect on more than one of the dimensions of project success. These three factors are Delivery Strategy, Team Capability, and Project Definition Process.