Nontechnological issues in software engineering

A panel discussion is reported. Three nontechnological problems were selected which each serve to cluster several lower-level elements. First, the software engineering profession has not produced a cadre of capable/competent managers. Second, software development is largely practiced as an individual creative activity, rather than a team effort. Third, the software engineering community has not taken positive action to reduce the performance (e.g., productivity and quality) differences among individuals (or across teams). Much of the potential impact of technological advances may be blocked by these factors. The panelists offer a wealth of experience, insight, and international perspectives on these nontechnological issues. The panelists address both the problems and steps for their resolution