Exploratory study on psychological safety among software developers: Impact on requirements engineering practices in large-scale agile environments
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Journal Title
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Volume Title
School of Business |
Master's thesis
Authors
Date
2024
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Information and Service Management (ISM)
Language
en
Pages
82 + 2
Series
Abstract
In the past, research has identified the crucial role of requirements engineering (RE) in IS development projects. Despite the critical importance of effective RE processes, their implementation varies widely across companies and teams. Proper RE practices significantly influence team performance, similarly to psychological safety (PS), which has substantial potential to enhance job satisfaction and team efficiency. This study delves into the interplay between RE practices and software developer’s PS within large-scale agile (LSA) environments. The primary research question focuses on the establishment of PS and its potential influence on the effectiveness of RE practices in LSA projects. This investigation is particularly compelling as it explores whether PS can positively impact RE processes. Empirical data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six software developers from various industries. These interviews provided diverse perspectives on existing RE practices, perceptions of PS, and the interplay between these two concepts. The data was analysed applying thematic analysis, which provided a robust framework to identify themes and patterns in the interview data. The findings suggest a potential bidirectional relationship where PS might enhance RE practices and, conversely, robust RE processes could positively affect PS, thereby improving team efficiency and performance. The study also indicates that maintaining high levels of PS, and consequently effective RE practices, requires continuous support from management and a culture that encourages learning and psychological well-being. These insights help to explore the dynamics between PS and RE and aiming to bridge a significant gap in the literature within LSA contexts. Managers can apply these findings to develop better RE practices by emphasizing the importance of PS, fostering open communication, and creating a company culture rooted in trust, respect, and recognition.Description
Thesis advisor
Ghanbari, HadiKeywords
requirements engineering, psychological safety, large-scale agile, software development, team performance, open communication