A model for enhancing software project management using software agent technology
Elmé Smith, Andries Barnard, Rita C. Nienaber · 2008
The present study originated from the realisation that numerous software development projects do not live up to expectations or fail. The environment and implementation of traditional software projects have changed due to various reasons, such as globalisation, advances in computing technologies and the deployment of software projects in distributed, collaborative and virtual environments. As a result traditional project management methods do not address the added complexities found in this ever-changing environment. In this study the processes associated with software project management (SPM) were explored. A thorough investigation into software agent computing resulted in the realization that software agent technology can be regarded as a paradigm to support SPM processes. It was concluded that agent technology is specifically suited to geographically distributed systems and large network systems. Agents also provide a natural metaphor for support in a team environment, with strong support for cooperation, coordination, monitoring and controlling. Although agent technology has been applied to sections of the SPM environment, it has not been applied to the whole spectrum, i.e. to all core and facilitating functions of SPM. Supporting and enhancing the whole spectrum of SPM processes by utilizing software agents could provide software project managers with significant advantages over using contemporary methods. The model (Software Project Management supported by Software Agents) was accordingly proposed. This model aims to enhance SPM by taking the unique nature and changing environment of Software Projects into account. The SPMSA model is unique as it supports the entire spectrum of SPM functionality, thus supporting and enhancing each key function with a team of software agents. A prototype of a section of the risk management key function of the SPMSA model was implemented as 'proof of concept'. Finally, the SPMSA model was verified by comparing the SPM phases of the model to the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, as well as to the basic phases of software development as prescribed by the ISO 10006:2003 standard for projects. In both cases the SPMSA model compared favourably. It can therefore be concluded that the SPMSA makes a fresh contribution to enhancing SPM, by utilizing software agent technology. Key terms. Software Project Management; Software agent computing; Mobile agents; Scope management, Time management, Cost management; Quality management; Human Resource Management; Communication Management; Risk Management; Procurement management.