Mind the Gap! Understanding Knowledge in Global Software Teams

This paper presents a conceptual framework and preliminary empirical analysis of knowledge gaps between global software team members in the UK and India. Drawing on episodes from rich case study evidence of a UK software firm based in the UK and software development sites in India, the conceptual framework is used to explore the data and to understand the knowledge gaps encountered. These are in relation to the level of knowledge, educational background, and experience of members. This study unpacks the notion of knowledge of software development into domain, technical, and application knowledge and considers the implications of prior knowledge, experience, and education background. It is anticipated from the preliminary findings that a practical and theoretical contribution will improve our understanding of the complexities of knowledge in such global arrangements.

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