Discovering automation level of software change request process from qualitative empirical data

This paper presents an approach in discovering automation level of software change request process from qualitative empirical data. In the study is investigated common practice in local very small software companies. Constructivist grounded theory was used as a research method suitable for discovering common practice and for creating explanations that are grounded in empirical data. In the research participated software experts from local very small software companies. Software experts were interviewed individually in their companies or participated in organized focus groups. The process of qualitative research that is used in the study is outlined, followed by the research findings. Analysis of empirical data reveals that very small software companies do not have automated software change request process, or have automated only parts of the process.