The SPACE framework aims to redefine how developer productivity is measured by incorporating complex constructs beyond traditional metrics like lines of code.
Developing the SPACE framework involved collaboration among researchers from diverse backgrounds, integrating insights from software engineering, psychology, and social sciences to provide a holistic understanding of productivity.
Deep dives
Origin and Development of the Space Framework
The space framework, co-authored by Dr. Margaret Anne Story, originated during the pandemic when researchers observed changes in developer productivity due to remote work. The framework delves into complex constructs like developer productivity and challenges traditional metrics such as lines of code. It aims to provide a richer understanding of productivity and how it varies across individuals.
Collaborative Process in Developing the Framework
Developing the space framework involved collaboration among researchers from different backgrounds, including academia and industry. The team conducted rigorous studies and integrated insights from software engineering, psychology, and social sciences. The framework emerged from a collective effort to redefine how productivity is perceived and measured in a more holistic way.
Application and Industry Reception of the Framework
The space framework has garnered significant attention in the industry for its innovative approach to measuring developer productivity. While practitioners appreciate the framework for shifting their perspective on productivity metrics, some struggle with translating its dimensions into actionable metrics. Industry's desire for objective data challenges the framework's emphasis on a more comprehensive understanding of productivity.
Evolution of Research Focus and Future Directions
Post-publishing the space framework, researchers like Dr. Story are shifting focus towards understanding developer experience and satisfaction. The research community aims to delve deeper into factors influencing developer motivation and work quality. Moving forward, research will explore the impact of automation and AI on developer productivity, highlighting the intersection of social and technical aspects in software engineering.
This week's guest is Dr. Margaret-Anne Storey, who goes by the name Peggy. Peggy is a professor of Computer Science at the University of Victoria, the Chief Scientist at DX, and co-author of the SPACE Framework, which is the topic of focus in this episode. Today’s conversation discusses what the SPACE framework is and what went into developing the metrics and categories. Peggy also shares where she sees this line of research heading next.
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Discussion points:
(1:29) Peggy’s background (4:01) What the SPACE framework is (5:55) Why the researchers came together for this paper (7:27) The process of writing this paper (9:52) How the SPACE categories and acronym emerged (11:50) The authors’ intention for how this framework would be received (13:26) Finding a definition for what developer productivity is (17:08) The metrics included in the SPACE framework (24:48) How SPACE is different from DORA (26:17) Why lines of code and number of pull requests were included as example metrics (27:14) What Peggy is thinking about next