Model for Improving Productivity Without Impacting Quality of Deliverables in IT Projects

Abstract

This research has developed a theoretical model that will help to improve productivity without reducing quality in software projects. It has been observed that while trying to increase productivity, quality gets hit in software projects. However, customer requirements in these projects demand that the projects be delivered on time without having defects or bugs in the final deliverables. Thus, it becomes important to identify variables that would increase productivity without compromising the quality. In the present study, through literature review different variables were identified that would affect both productivity and quality simultaneously. The data were collected from 36 software projects and were analysed to check the relationships between the identified variables, productivity and quality. Using structured equation modelling it was found that level of application complexity, training, level of client support, reusing existing code and quality of document management system significantly impact productivity without compromising quality. The findings can be used in projects engaged in customized software development as well as in commercial software development.