Handoffs Management in Follow-the-Sun Software Projects: A Case Study

In Follow-the-sun (FTS) software projects, handoffs are performed at the beginning and the end of each working day shift. Handoff efficiency is determined by the quality of knowledge transfer and the length of time taken to handover. If handoffs are not properly managed, FTS development may not result in benefits for the project. Thus, in this study, we investigate how handoffs management should be performed in an FTS software development context. We present an experience report describing the development and management handoffs in a FTS software project. Our results describe the participants´ perception about software engineering activities performed, challenges faced and solutions performed to minimize these challenges. Based on our results, we also highlight management elements for handoffs which should be useful for Project Managers.