🤖 AI Summary
In large-scale continuous software engineering (CSE), cross-team, cross-functional, and external dependencies frequently induce coordination delays and delivery bottlenecks. Method: Through 17 semi-structured interviews and thematic coding analysis, this study systematically identifies— for the first time—the three critical dependency types between software teams and supporting departments or external entities, along with their underlying bottleneck mechanisms. Contribution/Results: We propose the first dependency classification and analysis framework specifically designed for large-scale CSE. Empirical findings demonstrate that cross-functional and external dependencies are the primary drivers of performance degradation. The framework establishes a theoretical foundation for understanding complex interdependencies in CSE and explicitly prioritizes resilience-oriented coordination mechanisms. It thereby addresses a critical gap in empirical research on dependency management within large-scale CSE contexts.
📝 Abstract
Continuous Software Engineering (CSE) is widely adopted in the industry, integrating practices such as Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD). Beyond technical aspects, CSE also encompasses business activities like continuous planning, budgeting, and operational processes. Coordinating these activities in large-scale product development involves multiple stakeholders, increasing complexity. This study aims to address this complexity by identifying and analyzing critical dependencies in large-scale CSE. Based on 17 semi-structured interviews conducted at two Nordic fintech companies, our preliminary findings indicate that dependencies between software teams and support functions, as well as between software teams and external entities, are the primary sources of delays and bottlenecks. As a next step, we plan to further refine our understanding of critical dependencies in large-scale CSE and explore coordination mechanisms that can better support software development teams in managing these challenges.