3PR Framework for Software Project Management: People, Process, Product, and Risk

Abstract

Software projects are among the most risky projects. Compared to projects in other industries, the success rates in software projects are low. One of the main reasons for low performance is attributed to ineffective project management. Even though there is an established body of knowledge in project management, the current performance in software projects calls for more research on software project management. We need new theories, models, and frameworks to establish foundations for further research. In this research, we developed a framework for software project management. The framework includes people, process, product, and risk management. It is named as 3PR framework. People management area includes communication, teamwork, leadership, organizational commitment, project manager, stakeholder involvement, and staffing and hiring. Process management area consists of requirements management, project monitoring and control, project planning and estimation, and scope management. Product management area contains configuration management and quality engineering. Risk management area includes risk assessment and risk control. Our framework recognizes the importance of people management in software development. Furthermore, process, product, and risk management are essential parts of the framework. The framework is developed based on an extensive review of literature and many industry standards. It is validated by a survey of software development and management practitioners. 3PR framework provided guidance for the development of a software project management effectiveness metric. It may also be used as a basis for development of effective software project management processes, for development of new project management metrics, for teaching software project management, and for curriculum development. In short, 3PR framework provides a foundation for further research in software project management.