Towards sustainable software engineering : a maturity model for software development processes in IT companies

Abstract

As the demand for software solutions continues to grow, it becomes crucial to cultivate sustainable practices within software development processes. This study aims to develop a sustainability maturity model for evaluating the extent of sustainability integration within software development processes and to determine the level of maturity attained in this regard. To achieve this goal, the study adopts a design science research methodology, which integrates a qualitative research approach and utilizes both primary and secondary data sources. Drawing inspiration from well-established maturity models, our proposed model integrates sustainability principles and best practices. The validation process, involving input from industry experts, has provided valuable insights, confirming the relevance and practicality of our model. The feedback received has been instrumental in refining and enhancing the model’s effectiveness in addressing the unique challenges faced by software development experts in promoting environmental and social responsibility. In essence, we firmly believe that our proposed model significantly contributes to sustainable software development by facilitating systematic sustainability assessments. Additionally, it serves as a roadmap for organizations, guiding them towards proactive and sustainable practices, thus fostering a more sustainable future for the software industry and beyond.