Dependency Factors in Requirements Prioritization Models for Software Development

Requirements prioritization is crucial in software development, as it determines which requirements are addressed first to maximize project success. Previous studies have identified factors considered in requirements prioritization, but they have not fully captured the nuances and conditions present in the software industry. This study aims to investigate the key factors influencing requirements prioritization, with a particular focus on dependencies within the development model. Identifying these factors helps in understanding the complex interplay between various elements that ultimately impact project outcomes. This qualitative research combines a literature review with expert interviews to identify eight primary factors influencing requirements prioritization: cost, business value, urgency, human resources, risk, time, and dependencies. Five software industry experts, serving as project managers in the education, corporate, and government sectors, were interviewed. The interviews were conducted both online and offline, employing a semi-structured approach. The study explores how stakeholders and developers contribute to the prioritization process, with stakeholders emphasizing business needs and compliance, while developers focus on technical considerations. Our research findings highlight the key factors that influence requirements prioritization in the software industry. These factors require continuous evaluation and adjustment to ensure effective decision-making throughout the software development process. The proposed model integrates both stakeholder and developer perspectives, offering a structured approach to ensure alignment with organizational goals and optimize resource utilization. Notably, special attention is given to managing requirement dependencies, ensuring that interrelated tasks are effectively coordinated. This comprehensive model facilitates informed and strategic decision-making, thereby contributing to more effective software project management.