Exploring Challenges in Global Software Development

Abstract

Global Software Development (GSD) is a growing trend in the field of software engineering. However, despite its numerous benefits, GSD often encounters challenges in collaboration, leading to compromised product quality. This study investigated the collaboration challenges and implemented strategies within a GSD environment, specifically from the perspectives of Swedish and Korean companies. Through a case study with interviews, the research identifies three areas of GSD challenges: geographical, temporal, and socio-cultural distance. Strategies such as proper communication tools, building personal relationships, increasing cultural awareness and maximizing synchronous work hours were implemented to address these challenges. While the study acknowledges the effectiveness of various strategies, the study highlights the enduring value of face-to-face interaction in GSD. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of collaboration between Sweden and Korea in GSD, providing insights for improving future collaboration and enhancing product quality.