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Deciphering Software Outsourcing Impeding Factors (IFs) Using Multidimensional Analytical Techniques
DOI:10.1016/j.infsof.2026.108124.png)
Abstract
En 中文
Global software outsourcing has grown substantially recently; however, its success is frequently undermined by a range of Impeding Factors (IFs) that disrupt collaboration and project execution. Existing studies often examine these IFs in isolation, offering limited strategic or integrative insight. To overcome this limitation, this study employs a systematic three-phase research approach. First, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted to identify sixteen IFs. Second, strategic diagnostic techniques: SWOT analysis, Pareto analysis, and cluster analysis were combined with Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to validate and structure these factors. The dataset satisfied EFA suitability requirements (Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) = 0.762; Bartlett’s Test, p < 0.001), and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) extracted four dominant constructs explaining 75.7% of the total variance, with Varimax rotation improving interpretability. In the third phase, comparative analyses were performed across geographic regions, research methodologies, and organizational sizes to capture contextual variations. The results reveal four overarching categories of outsourcing IFs: (1) Coordination and Communication Gaps, (2) Project Management and Technical Deficiencies, (3) Vendor Relationship and Cultural IFs, and (4) External and Economic Constraints. The findings highlight significant contextual differences in the prevalence and impact of these factors. Overall, this study presents a robust multidimensional framework that enables systematic diagnosis, prioritization, and mitigation of software outsourcing IFs, supporting improved risk management, strategic alignment, and execution effectiveness in global software development projects.
Keywords:
Software Outsourcing
Impeding Factors
Multidimensional Analysis
Global Software Development
Strategic Diagnosis
Journal
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