6) Conclusion

To reiterate all points in this report, a summary of the important factors of a software development team include –

The ability to manage time effectively with a clear risk analysis of all the problems that can arise within the project, the key to this is to combine every member’s ideas and make sure that the team feels comfortable working together so that they voice their opinions.

The ability to make the best use of resources and of each member’s specialities, for instance it would not be optimal to have a programming specialist in an accounting style role.

Upon research, it is defiantly evident that extensive planning has the highest benefits in any given team exercise. This allows each member to individually know what specific role he / she may be in, and what is expected from them. The process of planning will also create a sense of community and allow the team to bond together.

Setting out clear hierarchies and role descriptions to the team is also key.

A good relationship between all staff in contact with the client (for example managers, estimators etc…) will create a good working relationship, and aid in formulating budgets and timescales.

The “headstone” of any project is of course the leader, and the role they play is crucial to the team wellbeing and the projects final results. The project leader / manager must be fair but firm, and sometimes be “cruel to be kind”. It takes a certain type of personality and set of people skills to be an effective project manager (Vieira 2005), and if the role is carried out well, they should be seen as approachable and self confident.

All potential problems should be pre anticipated if possible, although should any unexpected and perhaps unwelcome issues arise, there should be protocols in place to keep the project to schedule and to budget.

To finalise the most crucial elements of a successful software development team are communication, planning, effective management and the ability to overcome problems. You only reap what you sow regarding software projects; therefore the final result will be an indication of how well these elements were adhered to.