Towards a Gamification Framework for Software Process Improvement Initiatives: Construction and Validation

One of the main reasons for failure in Software Process Improvement (SPI) initiatives is the lack of motivation of the professionals involved. Therefore, motivation should be encouraged throughout the software process. Gamification allows us to define mechanisms that motivate people to develop specific tasks. A gamification framework was adapted to the particularities of an organization and software professionals to encourage motivation. Thus, it permitted to facilitate the adoption of SPI improvements and a higher success rate. The objective of this research was to validate the framework presented and increase the actual implementation of gamification in organizations. To achieve this goal, a qualitative research methodology was employed through interviews that involved a total of 29 experts in gamification and SPI. The results of this study confirm the validity of the framework presented, its relevance in the field of SPI and its alignment with the standard practices of gamification implementation within organizations.