Globally Distributed Software Engineering (GDSE)

Course Description

Welcome to the exciting world of Globally Distributed Software Engineering (GDSE)! This comprehensive course offers a practical and accessible overview of the organization and operation of software engineering in a globally distributed setting. Whether you're a professional working in distributed global software development teams or an executive looking to set up and lead such teams, this course is designed to equip you with the essential technical and organizational skills needed to thrive in this dynamic field.

What Students Will Learn

• Gain a deep understanding of the main constructs of GDSE theory
• Learn to apply GDSE principles in real-world company practices
• Identify key concepts in decision-making and leadership roles within a globally distributed context
• Explore the advantages and disadvantages of GDSE
• Understand the practical consequences and technological feasibilities of GDSE
• Learn from real-world experiences and examples of GDSE applications

Prerequisites

Students should have prior knowledge of software development processes. However, technical knowledge or programming skills are not required for this course.

Course Coverage

• Globally Distributed Software Engineering fundamentals
• Distributed Agile methodologies
• The role of the Software Engineer in GDSE
• C-level decision-making in GDSE contexts
• Offshoring and GDSE research
• Managing time and cultural differences in global teams
• Outsourcing, offshore software development, and near-shoring
• Multi-partner systems development

Target Audience

• Professionals working in distributed global software development teams
• Executives setting up or leading globally distributed teams
• Software engineers looking to expand their skills in global contexts
• Project managers interested in GDSE practices
• Anyone interested in the future of software engineering and global collaboration

Real-World Applications

• Effectively collaborate in global software development teams
• Make informed decisions about offshore development and outsourcing
• Implement agile methodologies in distributed settings
• Navigate cultural and time zone differences in global teams
• Lead and manage distributed software development projects
• Optimize software engineering processes for global contexts
• Stay competitive in an increasingly globalized tech industry

Syllabus

The course is structured around seven main topics, each featuring two guest lecturers from industry or academia:

1. Globally Distributed Software Engineering
2. Distributed Agile
3. The Software Engineer and GDSE
4. Boardroom: C-level Decision-Making
5. Offshoring and GDSE Research
6. Time and Cultural Differences

Guest lecturers include industry experts and researchers such as Emiel Romein (Software Development Manager, Exact Online), Jeff Sutherland (Inventor and co-creator of Scrum), Svenja de Vos (CTO, Leaseweb), Darja Šmite (Professor, Blekinge Institute of Technology), and many more experienced professionals in the field.

The course includes video lectures, group assignments, exercises, and for verified learners, access to a midterm and final test. Join us on this exciting journey into the world of Globally Distributed Software Engineering and take your career to new global heights!