Implementing a distributed software project management tool

Abstract

Software Development has become a necessity in our life where it can be found anywhere. As complexity increases, so does the risk of failure. It is estimated that 68% of all the projects fail, due to unrealistic terms, incompetent members, incorrect specifications, and poor management amongst other causes. This dissertation aims to tackle why projects fail, explores the crucial stages of Software Development which serve as guidelines, increasing the chance of project success. It also investigates some methodologies frequently used in the industry such as RUP and XP. Comparisons between various methodologies will conclude which methodology fits best for a project, depending upon its scope and requirements. A tool called SwiftDev was developed for modern project management to have greater success in software development. It aims to reduce risks by having, i) centralised data, ii) better management, iii) increased productivity, iv) flexibility in methodologies, v) minimise ambiguity and vi) increased collaboration. SwiftDev makes use of Tasks lists and Bug lists which are used for every methodology. RUP makes use of industrial standardised documents to reduce ambiguity and promote productiveness. XP supports User Stories. The system currently supports two methodologies, namely XP and RUP. SwiftDev supports also a chat system, user management, project management and auditing. SwiftDev aims to be sustainable and feasible in any size of the project using any methodology. It also supports a large base of concurrent users. Experts tested the system and appreciated the concept behind the dissertation, stating that it would work well in small-medium projects. Currently it is still unfeasible for large projects since certain features such as multiple team support are lacking but with further improvement, it can be implemented for large projects.