Challenges with Scaling Scrum to Large-Scale Software Development: A Case Study

Abstract

Agile software development methods have become popular since the introduction of the Agile Manifesto in 2001. Agile methods, such as Scrum, are originally created for small co-located teams but have been adopted to large-scale development organizations. The accompanying challenges of using Scrum in large-scale development are not fully explored and understood. This thesis aim to explore and identify challenges regarding large-scale agile development in a global software development organization. The research is done in form of a single case study, which empirically examine an organization's use of the Scrum framework. The results are analyzed with a congruence analysis of the case study, with basis in previous research on large-scale agile development. The thesis results in four hypothesis which are categorized into three main problem areas regarding scaling Scrum in the organization: coordination, communication, and processes. The results form a collective basis for answering why large-scale Scrum is challenging to scale, and what Scrum characteristics makes it challenging.