Stacey, Patrick, Brown, A. D. (Andrew D.) and Nandhakumar, Joe (2008) Dealing with technical challenges in mobile computer game development: a socio-political perspective. In: 2008 Academy of Management Annual Meeting, Anaheim, California, 8-13 Aug, 2008. Published in: Proceedings of the 2008 Academy of Management Annual Meeting

Abstract

This study investigates the social process of Information Systems development within the context of game software development for mobile phones. This paper seeks to understand how game developers deal with the technical challenges of developing games for such small form factor devices as mobile phones. The findings reveal the “negative” social consequences that may arise when developers attempt to make sense of and workaround such technical challenges. The research contribution this paper makes is threefold. First, it offers a socio-political perspective on mobile game development processes. Second, we show how individuals construct work stories as tools by which they make sense of technical challenges and read meaning into their working lives and relationships with others. Third, we illustrate the political use of these work stories: the actors attributed positive outcomes in their work to the self and negative outcomes to external forces, and, their presentation of the self to others was strategic. Finally, we outline some implications for managing processes of mobile game development.

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