Search Results (32)

Product development in academia and its technology transfer are crucial activities for the sustainable development of society. Nevertheless, transferring academic research is a complex process that requires mature research results aligned with market needs. Existing approaches frequently focus on process management and the relationships between system participants, disregarding the importance of maturity assessment in the product development cycle. This paper proposes an approach, comprising a Framework and a Method, to guide the progressive maturation of ICT products from universities and to facilitate their transfer to productive and social sectors. The Framework maps the innovation trajectory from research to commercialization by phases, tasks, activities, and stakeholders. The Method articulates agile cycles inspired by Scrum, with a continuous TRL-based maturity assessment and sustained market engagement to align academic product development with market demands. Innovation experts evaluated the approach using content validity indices and qualitative content analysis. The results showed a high level of agreement on the relevance and usefulness of the Framework and the Method, and qualitative feedback informed improvements in presentation and clarity. In summary, the proposed approach provides a practical roadmap for aligning university research with market needs and enhancing the conversion of prototypes into transferable and marketable solutions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dementia is a leading cause of cognitive decline, with significant challenges for early detection and timely intervention. The lack of effective, user-centred technologies further limits clinical response, particularly in underserved areas. This study aimed to develop and describe a co-design process for creating a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)-compliant, AI-powered Smart Assistant (SmartApp) to monitor neurocognitive decline, while ensuring accessibility, clinical relevance, and responsible AI integration. Methods: A co-design framework was applied using a novel combination of Agile principles and the Double Diamond Model (DDM). More than twenty iterative Scrum sprints were conducted, involving key stakeholders such as clinicians (psychiatrist, psychologist, physician), designers, students, and academic researchers. Prototype testing and design workshops were organised to gather structured feedback. Feedback was systematically incorporated into subsequent iterations to refine functionality, usability, and clinical applicability. Results: The iterative process resulted in a SmartApp that integrates a DSM-5-based screening tool with 24 items across key cognitive domains. Key features include longitudinal tracking of cognitive performance, comparative visual graphs, predictive analytics using a regression-based machine learning module, and adaptive user interfaces. Workshop participants reported high satisfaction with features such as simplified navigation, notification reminders, and clinician-focused reporting modules. Conclusions: The findings suggest that combining co-design methods with Agile/DDM frameworks provides an effective pathway for developing AI-powered clinical tools as per responsible AI standards. The SmartApp offers a clinically relevant, user-friendly platform for dementia screening and monitoring, with potential to support vulnerable populations through scalable, responsible digital health solutions. Full article

Despite widespread adoption, traditional Agile project management practices often fail to ensure successful delivery of enterprise-scale software projects. One key limitation lies in the absence of a conceptually defined structure for the various types of Agile activities and their interactions. As a result, Agile methodologies typically lack formal indicators for evaluating the semantic content and progress status of project activities. Although widely used tools for Agile project management, such as Atlassian Jira, capture operational data, project status assessment interpretation remains largely subjective—relying on the experience and judgment of managers and team members rather than on a formal knowledge model or well-defined semantic attributes. As Agile project activities continue to grow in complexity, there is a pressing need for a modeling approach that captures their causal structure in order to describe the essential characteristics of the processes and ensure systematic monitoring and evaluation of the project. The complexity of the corresponding model must correlate with the causality of processes to avoid losing essential properties and to reveal the content of causal interactions. To address these gaps, this paper introduces a causal Agile process model that formalizes the internal structure and transformation pathways of Agile activity types. To our knowledge, it is the first framework to integrate a recursive, causally grounded structure into Agile management, enabling both semantic clarity and quantitative evaluation of project complexity and progress. The aim of the article is, first, to describe conceptually different Agile activity types from a causal modeling perspective, its internal structure and information transformations, and, second, to formally define the causal Agile management model and its characteristics. Each Agile activity type (e.g., theme, initiative, epic, user story) is modeled using the management transaction (MT) framework—an internal model of activity that comprises a closed-loop causal relationship among management function (F), process (P), state attribute (A), and control (V) informational flows. Using this framework, the internal structure of Agile activity types is normalized and the different roles of activities in internal MT interactions are defined. An important feature of this model is its recursive structure, formed through a hierarchy of MTs. Additionally, the paper presents classifications of vertical and horizontal causal interactions, uncovering theoretically grounded patterns of information exchange among Agile activities. These classifications support the derivation of quantitative indicators for assessing project complexity and progress at a given point in time, offering insights into activity specification completeness at hierarchical levels and overall project content completeness. Examples of complexity indicator calculations applied to real-world enterprise application system (EAS) projects are included. Finally, the paper describes enhancements to the Jira tool, including a causal Agile management repository and a prototype user interface. An experimental case study involving four Nordic EAS projects (using Scrum at the team level and SAFe at the program level) demonstrates that the Jira tool, when supplemented with causal analysis, can reveal missing links between themes and initiatives and align interdependencies between teams in real time. The causal Agile approach reduced the total number of requirements by an average of 13% and the number of change requests by 14%, indicating a significant improvement in project coordination and quality. Full article

This study explores the application potential of a lean–Agile hybrid method in complex construction project management. By integrating Scrum iterative development, the Last Planner System, and a BIM collaboration platform, a dual-engine model is established to optimize the dynamic priority mechanism (MoSCoW 2.0) and interface conflict entropy algorithm (ICE model). Through a combination of theoretical and practical approaches, the study elucidates the implementation pathway of this hybrid method and evaluates its benefits in enhancing project efficiency, reducing waste, and accelerating digital transformation. The study provides a replicable management framework for the construction industry and proposes a blockchain-based decentralized knowledge management framework based on blockchain technology. Full article

This study aims to identify and evaluate the essential design features, strengths, and limitations of a virtual reality (VR) application that has been developed to train an international sales force effectively for a premium global wine brand. The study emphasizes the value of stakeholder-driven iterative development and systematic evaluations. A case study methodology was adopted for the research, focusing on a VR training application, developed for Marchesi Antinori. The Scrum framework was employed to facilitate iterative stakeholder collaboration. A qualitative evaluation was conducted using focus groups, comprising marketing, communications, and sales representatives. A systematic application of natural language processing (NLP) embedding techniques and recursive clustering analyses was undertaken to interpret stakeholder feedback. The findings suggest that stakeholder-driven, iterative processes can significantly enhance the effectiveness of VR applications by providing a clear structure for immersive storytelling that focuses on terroir characteristics, vineyard operations, and cellar practices. Stakeholders acknowledged the potent educational benefits of VR in regard to business-to-business (B2B) sales training. However, they also highlighted significant limitations, including user discomfort, concerns about authenticity, and variations in market receptivity. Alternative immersive technologies, including augmented reality and immersive multimedia environments, have emerged as valuable complementary approaches. This study addresses a significant gap in the literature by examining the application of VR technology for B2B sales training in the premium wine industry. The study integrates an iterative Scrum methodology with advanced natural language processing (NLP) analytical techniques to derive nuanced, context-rich insights. Full article

This article examines the challenges very small entities (VSEs) face as defined by the ISO/IEC 29110 standard, particularly their reliance on individual expertise and insufficient adherence to established software engineering practices and international standards, which can lead to increased rework. The article proposes a guide that harmonizes the Scrum and DevOps frameworks to address these challenges and facilitate their adoption in software development processes. An evaluation of the guide by experts indicates significant progress in integrating agile practices within VSEs. The methodology involved understanding both frameworks, modeling a harmonized development process, and creating a characterization tool to assess the current state of VSEs concerning best practices. Also, the guide includes an evaluation instrument to measure the adoption of its suggestions before and after implementation. While expert evaluations confirm the guide’s clarity and practical value, they suggest minor navigation and content clarity improvements. Ultimately, the guide aims to enhance VSEs’ development efficiency and improve software quality. Full article

Background: The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Business Process Management Systems (BPMSs) has led to the emergence of AI-Augmented Business Process Management Systems (ABPMSs). These systems offer dynamic adaptation, real-time process optimization, and enhanced knowledge management capabilities. However, key challenges remain, particularly regarding explainability, user engagement, and behavioral integration. Methods: This study presents a novel framework that synergistically integrates the Socialization, Externalization, Combination, and Internalization knowledge model (SECI), Agile methods (specifically Scrum), and cutting-edge AI technologies, including explainable AI (XAI), process mining, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). The framework enables the formalization, verification, and sharing of knowledge via a well-organized, user-friendly software platform and collaborative practices, especially Communities of Practice (CoPs). Results: The framework emphasizes situation-aware explainability, modular adoption, and continuous improvement to ensure effective human–AI collaboration. It provides theoretical and practical mechanisms for aligning AI capabilities with organizational knowledge management. Conclusions: The proposed framework facilitates the transition from traditional BPMSs to more sophisticated ABPMSs by leveraging structured methodologies and technologies. The approach enhances knowledge exchange and process evolution, supported by detailed modeling using BPMN 2.0. Full article

Very small entities (VSEs) often lack resources and specialized expertise and thus face unique challenges in the adoption of frameworks such as Scrum and DevOps. While these frameworks offer the potential to improve efficiency and quality, their successful integration into VSEs remains a complex undertaking. To address this issue, this study conducts a literature review of studies indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, aiming to consolidate existing knowledge and identify key success factors for the joint adoption of Scrum and DevOps in VSEs. A total of 111 peer-reviewed papers published between 2014 and 2023 were analyzed using a thematic analysis. The findings reveal five critical factors for Scrum (actively involving the stakeholders, early and continuous feedback, transparent communication channel, constant measure quality, and quality deliverable), five essential DevOps practices (versioning, pipeline automation, creation of a collaborative culture, continuous integration, and automated testing), and three common practices that facilitate their integration (early feedback, collaborative culture, and continuous improvement). This research provides actionable insights for VSE practitioners seeking to implement Scrum and DevOps effectively. It underscores the requirement for tailored guidelines and practical models to support the successful adoption of these frameworks, ultimately improving software development processes and business outcomes in these resource-constrained organizations. Full article

Background: Regression testing is critical in agile software development, as it ensures that frequent changes do not introduce defects into previously working functionalities. While agile methodologies emphasize rapid iterations and value delivery, regression testing research has predominantly focused on optimizing technical efficiency rather than aligning with agile principles. Aim: This study aims to systematically map research trends and gaps in regression testing within agile environments, identifying areas that require further exploration to enhance alignment with agile practices and value-driven outcomes. Method: A systematic mapping study analyzed 35 primary studies. The research categorized studies based on their focus areas, evaluation metrics, agile frameworks, and methodologies, providing a comprehensive overview of the field. Results: The findings strongly emphasize test prioritization and selection, reflecting the need for optimized fault detection and execution efficiency in agile workflows. However, areas such as test generation, test minimization, and cost analysis are under-explored. Current evaluation metrics primarily address technical outcomes, neglecting agile-specific aspects like defect severity’s business impact and iterative workflows. Additionally, the research highlights the dominance of continuous integration frameworks, with limited attention to other agile practices like Scrum and a lack of datasets capturing agile-specific attributes such as testing costs and user story importance. Conclusions: This study underscores the need for research to expand beyond existing focus areas, exploring diverse testing techniques and developing agile-centric metrics and datasets. By addressing these gaps, future work can enhance the applicability of regression testing strategies and align them more closely with agile development principles. Full article

Gamification has become a motivational technique for enhancing engagement and productivity, extending into agile software development. However, integrating gamification into agile frameworks such as the Scrum framework has led to the emergence of gamification risks, which may have adverse impacts on agile roles and tasks. These risks include an increase in the number of unassigned tasks affecting sprint velocity, novelty-seeking and quick boredom, clustering group, and intimidation, thus showing the need for a structured approach toward their management, their impacts on team dynamics and project outcomes. This study proposes the Agile Gamification Risk Management (AGRM) process, focused on identifying, assessing, and mitigating gamification risks in agile software enterprises. AGRM introduces artifacts such as the Gamification Risk Reporting Form, Personalized Risk Profiles, Task Impact Matrix, and Gamification Risk Register, enabling real-time proactive risk management. By leveraging a gamification risk taxonomy, AGRM categorizes and prioritizes risks, aligning mitigation efforts effectively. This paper details a two-phased empirical study to evaluate our proposed AGRM process. The proposed process identified 17 and mitigated 9 gamification risks for two agile teams in two software development enterprises. Unlike ad hoc practices, AGRM provides a structured approach, empowering teams to manage risks during sprint events. By incorporating artifacts like the Gamification Risk Register (GRR) and Personalized Risk Profiles (PRPs), teams can assess risks in context, enhancing productivity, collaboration, and project outcomes. The results demonstrate AGRM’s ability to boost team morale and confidence in addressing gamification risks effectively. Full article

Children with speech and language difficulties often face significant challenges in expressing their needs, emotions, and thoughts, which can lead to frustration, social isolation, and hindered participation in educational and social activities. Addressing this issue, we present a customizable communication board designed to facilitate effective and autonomous communication for these children. Unlike traditional solutions, this application offers a culturally adaptive and user-centered approach, enabling the inclusion of personalized pictograms, such as representations of familiar objects, to create a more relatable and engaging gamified experience. The platform “PictoAndes” leverages modern technology and gamification principles to transform therapy into an interactive and motivating process. By integrating pictograms that resonate with users’ unique contexts, the board enhances communication, strengthens emotional connections, and fosters a sense of belonging. Built on agile methodologies, the application provides a dynamic solution that adapts to individual needs and evolving challenges, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. The evaluation of the platform, guided by WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards, demonstrates its effectiveness in reducing communication barriers and promoting active participation. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 10, this project contributes to inclusive education and reduced inequalities by offering a practical and transformative tool. By empowering children to express themselves in meaningful ways, the customizable communication board represents a significant step toward enhancing the quality of life and fostering social inclusion for individuals with speech and language difficulties. Full article

Risk identification, as a foundational step in risk management, is essential for the success of software development projects, including those using the Scrum methodology. However, risk management in Scrum often lacks structured practices, relying instead on the iterative and collaborative nature of the methodology. This paper presents a novel risk identification framework tailored for Scrum projects, leveraging Scrum artifacts and their associated attributes to enhance risk detection and analysis. The framework encompasses automated data collection from project management environments, such as Jira, thus minimizing the effort required from the project team for risk-related data gathering. By monitoring deviations in artifact attributes and applying predefined thresholds, the framework facilitates the detection of risks at any point in the project lifecycle. Experimental evaluation across three distinct Scrum projects demonstrated the framework’s applicability in identifying a wide range of risks, including long-term ones. The proposed framework contributes to Agile project management by offering a structured, automated approach to risk identification, fostering a culture of proactive risk management within Scrum teams. Full article

In today’s dynamic development environments, agile methodologies like Scrum are essential for effective software project management. Despite its popularity, the Scrum framework’s reliance on subjective intuition during the sprint planning process can lead to inconsistencies and project delays. This study aims to enhance the sprint planning phase by integrating the BeCoMe method, which is a mathematical approach designed to optimize task selection through structured compromise solutions. Utilizing a soft systems methodology, this research identifies and analyzes the existing inefficiencies in Scrum’s planning process. The implementation of the BeCoMe method in a real-world case study demonstrated significant improvements in task completion rates and overall project efficiency. The method’s structured process reduces biases, fosters team consensus, and enhances decision-making accuracy. The findings suggest that incorporating the BeCoMe method into Scrum can substantially mitigate risks, save time, and improve project outcomes by ensuring a more objective and data-driven approach to sprint planning. These insights are crucial for developers managing modern software projects, offering a robust framework for enhancing planning efficiency and success rates. Full article

This study investigates the integration of agile methodologies, particularly Scrum, into the teaching of microservices, API-first, cloud-native, and headless (MACH) architecture within a university setting. Using an action research framework, we see the impact of agile approaches on student learning and the practical application of MACH principles. The findings reveal that agile methodologies not only enhance students’ technical proficiency, but also foster collaborative and iterative learning environments that simulate real-world software development. Over a 15-week course, students applied agile techniques to design, build, and deploy microservices-based systems, benefiting from structured yet adaptable sprints that broke complex tasks into manageable stages. Quantitative assessments showed substantial improvements in knowledge and confidence, while qualitative feedback emphasized the hands-on, project-based learning’s alignment with industry practices. This research underscores the potential of agile frameworks to enhance education in emerging software architectures, offering insights into how higher education can align more closely with the dynamic needs of the software industry. Full article

Agile software development prioritizes customer satisfaction through the continuous delivery of valuable software. However, integrating user experience (UX) evaluations into agile projects remains a significant challenge. Existing proposals address specific stages that apply UX evaluation methods but do not fully consider UX artifacts or UX events for integrating user experience into agile processes. To address this gap and support teams, we propose FRAMUX-EV, a framework for evaluating UX in agile software development using Scrum. FRAMUX-EV introduces seven UX artifacts: (1) UX evaluation methods, (2) UX design system, (3) UX personas, (4) UX responsibilities and roles, (5) UX evaluation repository, (6) UX backlog, and (7) UX sprint backlog; and four UX events: (1) pre-planning UX meeting, (2) pre-review UX meeting, (3) weekly UX meeting, and (4) weekly user meeting. The first version of the framework was developed using a seven-step methodology with a qualitative approach. A survey of 34 practitioners validated the usefulness and ease of integration of FRAMUX-EV components, yielding positive results. These findings suggest the potential of FRAMUX-EV as an interesting proposal for integrating UX into agile software development. Full article