Effects of Technical Debt Awareness: A Classroom Study

Abstract

Technical Debt is a metaphor that has, in recent years, helped developers to think about and to monitor software quality. The metaphor refers to flaws in software (usually caused by shortcuts to save time) that may affect future maintenance and evolution. We conducted an empirical study in an academic environment, with nine teams of graduate and undergraduate students during two offerings of a laboratory course on Extreme Programming (XP Lab). The teams had a comprehensive lecture about several alternative ways to identify and manage Technical Debt. We monitored the teams, performed interviews, did close observations and collected feedback. The results show that the awareness of Technical Debt influences team behavior. Team members report thinking and discussing more about software quality after becoming aware of Technical Debt in their projects.

Identification and measurement of Requirements Technical Debt in software development: A systematic literature review

“…In this circumstance, with the inclusion of different techniques, tools, and evidence, companies aim to reduce and prevent shortcuts and solutions that do not achieve the expected success (Li et al, 2015a). However, most of the TD items are inadequately managed, thereby further increasing the risk of high maintenance costs (Tonin et al, 2017). Therefore, it is appropriate to find the best ways to ensure that the TD achieves is properly managed, which will facilitate decision-making on future activities (Alves et al, 2018).…”

Preventing technical debt with the TAP framework for Technical Debt Aware Management

“…Letouzey et al also mentioned an awareness workshop for top managers to introduce TD and the SQUALE 3 method to them [42]. Tonin et al [43] researched the effects of TD awareness by conducting a classroom study. The students were informed about the concept of TD and should use TD boards during a project.…”

Identification and Measurement of Technical Debt Requirements in Software Development: a Systematic Literature Review

“…In this context, with the inclusion of different techniques, tools and evidence, companies aim to reduce and prevent shortcuts and solutions that do not achieve the expected success (Li et al, 2015a). However, most of the TD items are inadequately managed, thereby further increasing the risk of high maintenance costs (Tonin et al, 2017). Therefore, it is appropriate to find the best ways to ensure that the TD achieve proper management, facilitating decision-making on future activities (Alves et al, 2018).…”