EXTERNAL CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS FOR THE GROWTH OF STARTUP SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT COMPANIES IN SRI LANKA

Abstract

This research attempts to achieve three objectives. The fi rst is to identify the external factors that affect the growth of infant software development companies. Se-condly, we wish to identify the most signifi cant factors. The third is to identify the relationship of fi rm’s suc-cesses and failures on most significant factors. A ques-tionnaire was prepared to collect data. The sample was selected from among the software companies started between the year 2000 and 2006 having at least one local project completed. Unavailability of IT workforce, telecommunication, electricity, acknowledging the local products and tax holiday schemes were identified as the most critical for the growth of startup software firms. It is recommended to expand the IT training capacity in the country to produce required professional workforce. Software development centers can be setup in the vicini-ty of such training centers to get capable students on a part-time basis. The government can provide an encouraging environment with the infrastructure in place and incentives for startups.

Keywords: Software Industry, Startup Software Companies, Critical Success Factors

For full paper: fmscresearch@sjp.ac.lk