Risk Management in Agile Software Development projects: Designing A Process Model With a Qualitative Approach

Although agile software development approaches are more effective, comparing to traditional approaches, the implicit risk management processes in those approaches are not sufficient to address project risks alone, and the use of explicit processes to manage risks is essential. On the other hand, traditional risk management methodologies seem to be in contrast with agile philosophy. This study aims to provide a tailored process model for risk management in agile software development projects. The qualitative study is carried out using the meta-synthesis method, Delphi method, and interpretive structural modeling.  The research is done by coding 28 scientific articles. The initial findings were observed by collecting the opinions of 12 experts. We used the Delphi method and interpretive structural modeling, to determine the interdependencies between the processes. Besides, finding a new "risk facilitator" role, alongside the project team, the study further led to the identification of eight process-steps in form of three process groups: "risk tailoring", "risk commitment" and "post risk", in line with the agile development projects' life cycle.