Impact of physical ambiance on communication, collaboration and coordination in agile software development: An empirical evaluation

Abstract

Context: Communication, collaboration and coordination are key enablers of software development and even more so in agile methods. The physical environment of the workspace plays a significant role in effective communication, collaboration, and coordination among people while developing software. Objective: In this paper, we have studied and further evaluated empirically the effect of different constituents of physical environment on communication, coordination, and collaboration, respectively. The study aims to provide a guideline for prospective agile software developers. Method: A survey was conducted among software developers at a software development organization. To collect data, a survey was carried out along with observations, and interviews. Results: It has been found that half cubicles are 'very effective' for the frequency of communication. Further, half cubicles were discovered 'effective' but not 'very effective' for the quality/effectiveness of communication. It is found that half-height cubicles and status boards are 'very effective' for the coordination among team members according to the survey. Communal/discussion space is found to be 'effective' but not 'very effective' for coordination among team members. Our analysis also reveals that half-height glass barriers are 'very effective' during the individuals problem-solving activities while working together as a team. Infact, such a physically open environment appears to improve communication, coordination, and collaboration. Conclusion: According to this study, an open working environment with only half-height glass barriers and communal space plays a major role in communication among team members. The presence of status boards significantly help in reducing unnecessary communication by providing the required information to individuals and therefore, in turn reduce distractions a team member may confront in their absence. As communication plays a significant role in improving coordination and collaboration, it is not surprising to find the effect of open working environment and status boards in improving coordination and collaboration. An open working environment increases the awareness among software developers e.g. who is doing what, what is on the agenda, what is taking place, etc. That in turn, improves coordination among them. A communal/discussion space helps in collaboration immensely. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.