A framework for the adoption of Agile software development methodologies in Botswana

Abstract

Modern software development methodologies (SDMs) such as Agile, Scrum, Extreme Programming, Lean and others are emerging as the de facto software development methodologies around the globe, however, their uptake by Botswana software development companies (BSDCs) have been slow with many opting to use traditional methods such as the Waterfall method. This research aimed to explore the factors that affect the adoption of Agile SDMs by the Botswana software development industry (BSDI) and why the newer methodologies are not considered for adoption, and thereafter develop a guiding framework for the adoption of an appropriate Agile SDM. An interpretivist/constructivist paradigm guided this research study, and the case study methodology was adopted because it allows research of complex phenomena in a specific context to be conducted. A sample of 12 BSDCs using purposive sampling was used for the study, however, only 9 companies participated. Ethical approval for the research was sought from both the University of South Africa and the Government of Botswana. It was found that the adoption and implementation of newer SDMs by the BSDI were hampered by the assumption that this process would attract costs and affect profit margins of the industry, lack of knowledge about newer methodologies such as Agile, shortage of skilled personnel, insufficient resource support, and inefficient knowledge management systems. A framework, guided by the Technology Acceptance Model II, was developed, and validated. This framework provides a starting point for the Botswana software industry, organisations interested in adopting Agile methodologies. The framework emphasises better practices and provides guidance in the use of Agile as a software development methodology.