A social network analysis-based approach for modelling and analysing dependencies among requirements in new software development projects

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Bashir, Hamdi and Alhammadi, Messa and Ojiako, Udechukwu and Shamsuzzaman, Mohammad and Haridy, Salah (2025) A social network analysis-based approach for modelling and analysing dependencies among requirements in new software development projects. International Journal of Project Organisation and Management, 17 (4). pp. 400-420. ISSN 1740-2905 (https://doi.org/10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10070869)

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Abstract

Previous studies proposed several methods to model and analyse the dependencies within software requirements (SRs) in development projects. For practical purposes, teams developing software require simple tools that assist in mapping and assessing the relationships between SRs during the initial stages of development. Considering the limitations of previous works, this study suggests adopting a social network analysis-based approach. This approach enables development teams to analyse and visualise the relationships between SRs, offering a holistic view of SR interactions and aiding in identifying the most critical SRs along with their paths of change propagation. As a result, this approach facilitates effective and efficient change management, reducing cost risks and lead-time overruns in projects. The practicality of this approach is demonstrated through its application in modelling and analysing 28 SRs in a real-world software development project.

ORCID iDs

Bashir, Hamdi, Alhammadi, Messa, Ojiako, Udechukwu ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0506-2115, Shamsuzzaman, Mohammad and Haridy, Salah;
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)