A Method for Rapid Creation of a Virtual Software Development Team

Companies dealing with software development are often facing problems related to cadre as a consequence of rapid technology changes and varying project requirements. Frequently, when a new project is commenced additional workforce is required, but after the project is finished these additional employees are not needed anymore. Possible solution for the problem is formation of a virtual development team. Use of virtual development teams in the field of software development is a well established practice. However, such teams are usually assembled for longer periods and their members are relatively permanent. The goal of our research is to create methodological approach that would enable a software development company to rapidly start an ad hoc virtual team when needed. Members of such team would be only temporary and their tasks relatively simple and independent. In our opinion, such approach could offer interesting advantages to certain types of software development companies. This chapter presents the backbone of the approach and its basic properties.