Synthesizing researches on knowledge management and agile software development using the meta-ethnography method

Abstract

Context: Software development processes are considered as knowledge intensive and therefore Knowledge Management (KM) can be applied to efficiently manage the knowledge generated. Agile practices can benefit the software organizations in terms of KM. Some studies have already presented evidence about this relationship. However, the intersection of these two areas still require further clarification. Objective: This study aims to synthesize research on KM and Agile Software Development (ASD) using the meta-ethnography method considering Scrum and XP frameworks as scope. Method: In order to achieve the proposed goal, first, the phases of the meta-ethnography analysis method were applied to a set of articles selected from a tertiary review of KM and ASD, as well as classic guides and area references. Finally, the relationships identified between the investigated areas were analyzed through interviews with experts in agile development methodology. Results: KM activities during ASD can improve team learning and collaborate with the evolution of organizational knowledge. The most common activity investigated between KM and ASD is knowledge sharing. Applying meta-ethnography and confirming the synthesization of interviews with ASD specialists, it was possible to identify relationships and associations between agile values, Scrum elements and main XP practices within the integrated KM cycle. Conclusion: The clarification of how KM is present in each agile value, practices and artifacts allows a reflection on how much knowledge was created, shared and applied during ASD. In addition, such results presented in this study enable organizations to know each other better and to explore more each KM activity, thus contributing to delivering more value to the customer.