Analysing the Efficiency of the Software Development Process in a Low-Code Technology Company : A Case Study Using Value Stream Map
Abelita, Katharina (2023)
Abelita, Katharina
2023
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202402012358
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202402012358
Tiivistelmä
Low-code platforms address the rising need for technology solutions by streamlining development through drag-and-drop features. However, bottlenecks in other stages can still prolong the overall software development process. This thesis examines the low-code software development process primarily aiming to uncover inefficiencies and propose solutions to tackle them.
Two case studies revolving around Power Apps development were examined to gain insights into the process. Using literature review, thematic analysis of hour entries, and interview with the lead developers, a visual representation of the process was created through a value stream map.
Key findings unveiled substantial delays in both case studies, primarily stemming from the extended wait times for external parties' input or availability. Notably, granting access rights by clients emerged as a recurring challenge while internal practice relied on various interfaces for work planning, target setting, progress tracking, and update management. The multitude of communication platforms for project-related information exchange presented an additional hurdle. In response to these challenges, a set of potential solutions was proposed, encompassing streamlining project management, improving client communication, automating status updates, optimising meetings, and being cautious with holiday project initiations. Although these proposed solutions may offer process improvements, they require real-world implementation and continuous feedback for validation, while financial considerations warrant further investigation.
Two case studies revolving around Power Apps development were examined to gain insights into the process. Using literature review, thematic analysis of hour entries, and interview with the lead developers, a visual representation of the process was created through a value stream map.
Key findings unveiled substantial delays in both case studies, primarily stemming from the extended wait times for external parties' input or availability. Notably, granting access rights by clients emerged as a recurring challenge while internal practice relied on various interfaces for work planning, target setting, progress tracking, and update management. The multitude of communication platforms for project-related information exchange presented an additional hurdle. In response to these challenges, a set of potential solutions was proposed, encompassing streamlining project management, improving client communication, automating status updates, optimising meetings, and being cautious with holiday project initiations. Although these proposed solutions may offer process improvements, they require real-world implementation and continuous feedback for validation, while financial considerations warrant further investigation.