An empirical study on software engineering knowledge/experience packages

Abstract

This paper is concerned with characterization of software engineering knowledge and experience packages (EP) in the user perspective. It presents the first iteration of an evidence-based study. Results are presented from surveys conducted with many practitioners about the available experience bases, and on literature, to improve our understanding about the state of the practice and art for EP. Additionally, the paper presents attributes and their properties that, in the opinion of the participant practitioners, are relevant for characterizing an EP in the user perspective. Subsequently, with regard to this empirical system, the Acceptability indirect measurement model is provided for experience components. Moreover, the test of this measurement model is shown, which involved both developing qualitative evaluations with practitioners, and measuring ten Internet-available experience bases. Finally, the threats to validity are considered that, as usual for pilot studies, call for further investigation. © 2008 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.