Computer-supported Collaborative Work and Its Application to Software Engineering

Rapidly changing organizational and technological environments present a major challenge to computer professionals. Systems development by individual programmers is increasingly less feasible. It is necessary to make a conscious paradigm shift from developers primarily working independently to produce modular system components to cross-functional teams comprised of various system experts working jointly to produce a solution to a mutually defined user-problem set. The complexity of the dialogue and poor communication between users, developers, and managers have been cited as major factors in the failure of information system projects. In contrast, computer-supported collaborative work (CSCW) systems enhance communication by providing process and task support in the form of group memory, anonymity, parallel communication, and collaboration tools. They further provide both task and process structure. This study investigated, in the context of a field-based case study, possibilities for formation of a synergistic union between CSCW and CASE tools. A major dimension of today's software challenge is in gearing up for large-scale system development necessitating large teams of systems engineers. The principal goal of this research was to advance the body of knowledge regarding the nature of collaborative technological support in the software development process. Specifically, the study was designed to evaluate the potential for using a CSCW tool as an effective front-end to a CASE tool in the furtherance of SDLC goals. The findings suggest that CSCW support had the greatest positive effect on satisfaction levels with the communication process and the task progress, as well as confidence in the quality of the results. Positive results were also seen in satisfaction levels with resulting system quality, team productivity, communication process, communication technology, CASE technology benefits, system development methodology, project management methodology, group process, and task results. A slight decline in satisfaction with the system development technology occurred. Additionally, a significant increase was seen in the volume of descriptive information available to the development team. However, despite these positive results, CSCW support was abandoned after nine months because of training and political.