(No) Need to Apply Agile?

Abstract

The continued popularity of agile information systems development (ISD) underscores its relevance to both researchers and practitioners. At the heart of the agile manifesto is the claim to value people over processes and, as a result, to increase employee job satisfaction. However, the research landscape on this topic is still heterogeneous and lacks a comprehensive overview. This manuscript develops a theoretical framework to guide future studies on job satisfaction in agile ISD. First, the status quo of job satisfaction in agile ISD within information systems and across the disciplines of computer science, psychology, and management is systematically reviewed and critically evaluated. Second, a theoretical framework consisting of three key themes is conceptualized. Third, based on the framework, significant research gaps are identified, and recommendations for future studies of agile ISD at the individual, team, and organizational levels are provided. Finally, strategic directions for the application of agile ISD practices are given.