1.1 Feasibility of Global Software Development
The long-term feasibility of global software development (GSD) as standard practice remains undetermined due to its relative novelty. This session will address some of the existing concerns and explore feasibility issues in depth. In particular, we will attempt to determine the appropriate use of GSD practices in relation to software engineering projects as a whole as well as during specific project phases. Intercultural, logistical, technical and fiscal limitations will be considered. Four papers that relate directly to feasibility concerns will be presented and discussed. Boland and Fitzgerald’s paper will allow workshop participants to analyze transitioning from co-located to globally distributed environments within the framework of a specific case study. Bass and Paulish’s contribution will provide insight into the GSD strategies used by Siemens—one of the most globally distributed software companies in the world. Yan’s case study will highlight the GSD challenges experienced by Nokia during the maintenance phase of an e-commerce project. Finally, Prikladnicki and Yamaguti’s position paper will highlight risk management issues related specifically to GSD projects. The intention of this session is to foster discussion, isolate key issues for further research and establish strategies for future collaboration.