Title: Effects of technological change on the skills and competencies of software development professionals: a case study on the transition from ABAP to JAVA

Authors: Guido Capaldo, Pierluigi Rippa, Valerio Teta

Addresses: University Federico II of Naples, Piazzale Tecchio 80, Naples 80125, Italy. ' University Federico II of Naples, Piazzale Tecchio 80, Naples 80125, Italy. ' University Federico II of Naples, Piazzale Tecchio 80, Naples 80125, Italy

Abstract: This paper deals with the organisational implications related to the adoption of new technologies in software development activities. Transition from traditional heavyweight approach, based on a carefully documented planning of the activities, to agile approach, based on object-oriented activities, requires process reengineering in software development. This case study outlines the need to develop a new professional area, software design and a new professional role, the designer. The strategy adopted by the firm under the investigation in the framework of this case study shows how top management reacted to this stage of transition and how the need for a new role was met.

Keywords: skills; competencies; software development; technological change; heavyweight methodologies; agile methodologies; information technology; ABAP; JAVA; new technologies; technology adoption; object-oriented activities; process reengineering; top management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJITM.2008.018659

International Journal of Information Technology and Management, 2008 Vol.7 No.4, pp.440 - 451

Published online: 04 Jun 2008 *

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