Application of a Gamified Approach to Learning in the Treatment of Problems in Software Process Improvement: Analysis and Discussion of Results

Abstract

The specialized literature defines Software Process Improvement (SPI) as the fundamental approach to improving software products in software development organizations. In this context, studies report several problems and difficulties that organizations face during the implementation of improvements. Although there are studies that address the problems highlighted in improvement programs, few studies still seek to identify practices in order to mitigate the negative effects of critical factors. Thus, the objective of this work is to discuss and analyze the results obtained in an Experience Report that consisted of a dynamic application with gamification elements in an SPI context related to learning in the treatment of recurring problems or difficulties in the implementation of improvements. It is noteworthy that the dynamics can be developed in organizations (commercial and academic) regardless of the improvement model or standard desired, since it was elaborated in relation to common problems experienced and identified in the SPI implementations scenario. The analysis of the obtained data was performed using an Evaluation Framework for Gamification in Software Engineering, which provided a standard structure for the design of evaluation studies for gamification cases.