Wastag and Its Elimination in Software Development Projects in Europe in the Context of Lean IT

The article introduces the concept of wastage and its elimination in software development projects in the context of Lean IT. Empirical research in 142 European computer programming companies shows the types of losses and their causes, as well as the techniques used to minimise them. The main losses are delays and waiting, unnecessary meetings and switching between tasks. The most common causes of losses are overly ambitious client requirements and running multiple projects at the same time. Techniques used to reduce wastage include agile project management and proper planning. Larger organisations tend to have higher levels of wastage. Statistical analysis has shown that delays are associated with unnecessary processes and movements. Poor communication in particular causes various types of wastage, while software defects in particular have multiple causes. Logistic regressions showed that the elimination of wastage correlates with a better competitive position and development prospects of companies.