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Integrating agile software development into stage-gate managed product development

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Abstract

Agile methods have evolved as a bottom-up approach to software development. However, as the software in embedded products is only one part of development projects, agile methods must coexist with project management models typically of the stage-gate type. This paper presents a qualitative case study of two large independent software system projects that have used eXtreme Programming (XP) for software development within contexts of stage-gate project management models. The study is comprised of open ended interviews with managers as well as practitioners, followed by a structured, fully traceable, qualitative analysis. We conclude that it is possible to integrate XP in a gate model context. Key issues for success are the interfaces towards the agile subproject and management attitudes towards the agile approach.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department Communication Systems, Lund University, Box 118, SE-221 00, Lund, Sweden

    Daniel Karlström & Per Runeson

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  1. Daniel Karlström
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  2. Per Runeson
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Correspondence to Daniel Karlström.

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Editor: Marvin Zelkowitz

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Karlström, D., Runeson, P. Integrating agile software development into stage-gate managed product development. Empir Software Eng 11, 203–225 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10664-006-6402-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10664-006-6402-8

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