Integrating Approaches in Software Development: A Case Analysis in a Small Software Company

There are a myriad of software development methods, methodologies, frameworks, techniques and practices in both traditional and agile software development. Seeking synergy between these approaches has become necessary for the evolution of a software development process. Software companies deal with that challenge by combining well-structured comprehensive methods and flexible agile practices. In fact, some studies have revealed that mixed approaches in software industry are not uncommon. This paper analyzes a case study of the evolution of a software development process in a small company, which is based on Design Thinking, PMBOK and SCRUM. Results show the natural evolution of the software process over 15 years and lessons learned from a pragmatic process selection. The evolution in the company depends on its adaptability which captures the capacity of the company to learn, combine experience and knowledge, and adjust its software process to a changing context. Despite the results are promising further studies should be done.