Using Social Network Analysis to Form Efficient Project Teams

Abstract

For the successful software project management and success of a project, many studies have been done but still many of the software projects cannot end up well. Among many critical factors, we have identified “Project teams” as a strong determinant in project success. The formation of software project teams has always given less priority in the entire project development process. Inaccurate formation of software project teams can lead to software project failure. We have proposed a framework using social network analysis that can act as a supportive tool in the formation of the efficient project teams. We have suggested a method for selection of team members that can act efficiently in joint team performance. Our framework considers technical, social and non-technical skills. Moreover, on the basis of their previous collaborations, we have finally proposed the team members which are best compatible with each other. We have used social network analysis techniques to dig out most potential nodes and compatible links. The final nodes and links suggested by our frame work are considered as best combination of team members. The results are validated by matching index. Matching index of both the teams suggested by our framework and tradition technical method was computed with the successful projects already completed by the software company. The matching index for our framework was higher for the successful projects as compared to traditional teams. We have concluded that the selection of right project team in right way increases project productivity. Non-technical and social factors along with technical skills boost the team performance remarkably as proposed by our frame work.