Enhancing US Software Companies' Competitive Edge with Agile Project Management

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to examine how the adoption of Agile Project Management practices can help US-based software companies gain a competitive advantage in the rapidly evolving global marketplace. With ever-increasing customer demands and changing technology landscapes, it was crucial to assess whether agile methodologies could effectively address these challenges. The software industry in the USA faced challenges related to project delays, cost overruns, and difficulties in responding to changing customer requirements. Traditional project management approaches often proved inadequate in such dynamic environments. The study aimed to determine whether Agile Project Management could mitigate these issues and improve competitiveness. The research employed a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through surveys distributed to software companies implementing agile practices. Qualitative insights were gathered through in-depth interviews with industry experts. Data analysis involved statistical techniques for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. The findings revealed that Agile Project Management significantly improved software development processes. Agile adoption also fostered better collaboration among cross-functional teams. Moreover, Agile practices positively impacted software quality and customer satisfaction, ultimately contributing to a competitive edge. Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that Agile Project Management has a substantial positive impact on the competitiveness of US-based software companies. To enhance competitiveness, it is recommended that US software companies consider the adoption of Agile Project Management practices. Additionally, organizations should invest in training and cultural changes to facilitate a smooth transition to agile methodologies. Continuous improvement and alignment with agile principles are essential for sustained competitiveness. Keywords. Agile Project Management, Software Development, Competitiveness, Customer-Centric, US Software Companies