System dynamics modeling to manage performance based on scope change for software development projects

Abstract

The success of a project can be described based on the output performance of the project. Output Performance defines successful completion of a project with given constraints. To keep the project’s output performance high, it is very necessary to complete the project with defined a set of resources. One of the important resources of a project is scope. Scope defines the set of tasks need to be completed for a project. Scope change is a very common issue in software development project and this change has a major impact on productivity as well as the overall performance of the project. In this paper, we have proposed a simulation model based on rework cycle using System Dynamics for managing the project’s performance considering scope change. We have tried to compare the scenarios both for baseline project and project with scope change. In this case we have shown how moderate use of schedule pressure and overtime gives positive impact on productivity. And this increase of productivity also increases the performance in developing the project. The proposed model helps for decision making process that will increase the productivity and keep the project’s output performance high when the scope is changed.