Improving software configuration management for extreme programming: a controlled case study

Extreme programming (XP) is currently the most popular agile software development method. It is as its best for small teams developing software subject to rapidly changing requirements. Software configuration management (SCM) is a method of bringing control to the software development process. SCM is known as an indispensable activity that must take place whenever developing software. It is inseparable part of quality-oriented product development regardless of development method. Existing studies show that SCM is partially addressed via XP's collective ownership, small releases, and continuous integration practices. However, currently there exist very few empirical data on SCM exploitation in XP. This paper reports results from a controlled extreme programming case study supported by well-defined SCM activities and tools. Results show that SCM activities and tools, when properly used, provide essential support for XP development process and its practices