System Dynamics as an Enabling Technology for Learning in Software Organisations

Learning in software organisations takes place on both project and organisational level. By learning we mean the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and experiences for better and faster decision making at the various stages of the software development process. Simulation is successfully used in various environments where it is very costly, if not impossible, to conduct experiments in real world settings for the purpose of learning. This paper addresses process simulation in software organisations and how it facilitates learning. The behaviour of very complex and dynamic systems is investigated with the help of System Dynamics models (SDM) and subsequent simulation runs. For the purpose of planning, control and improvement it is shown how SDMs help acquire better and more comprehensive knowledge as compared with the traditional static models typically used in an Experience Factory. The usefulness of the methodological concepts is demonstrated with results of a project conducted in one of the telecom business units of Siemens.