Date of Conferral

2-7-2025

Degree

Doctor of Information Technology (D.I.T.)

School

Management

Advisor

Branford McAllister

Abstract

Since 2017, the U.S. automotive industry has experienced a decrease in new-model launch success rate. A single 12-month delay in a new vehicle launch may cost a manufacturer up to $200 million. One component of automotive product development is software development. The research problem was a lack of understanding of the challenges with software development methodologies from the perspective of software developers, preventing managers from implementing methodologies, policies, and processes to improve the rates of successful new model launches. The purpose and the research questions were focused on exploring the lived experiences of software developers in the U.S. automotive industry regarding the challenges with various software development methodologies. The conceptual framework centered on the actor-network theory as a lens to analyze the interconnections among actors involved in new model development. A qualitative, phenomenological research design was used, involving 20 interviews with experienced software developers and a thorough analysis of interview transcripts to identify emergent codes and themes relevant to the research questions. Three key findings were identified: (a) balancing technical excellence with software development complexities, (b) evaluating software methodology uses and trade-offs, and (c) the development methodology effects on launch timelines. Research showed that success hinges on hybrid development approaches and diverse teams for collective intelligence and problem-solving outcomes. The implications for positive social change include the potential for automotive software development leaders to democratize knowledge for shaping transportation technology to serve all users more effectively.

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