Flexibility in research designs in empirical software engineering

摘要: Problem outline: It is common to classify empirical research designs as either qualitative or quantitative. Typically, particular methods (e.g., case studies, action research, experiments and surveys) are associated with one the other of these types design. Studies in software engineering (ESE) often exploratory involve developers development organizations. As a consequence, it may be difficult plan all aspects successful, ESE studies must designed handle possible changes during conduct study. A problem above classification that does not cater for flexibility design. Position: This paper suggests viewing along axis flexible fixed designs, which both orthogonal quantitative independent method. According traditional view ESE, design course study typically regarded threats validity results. However, flexible, practical challenges can provide useful information. The results established by applying techniques traditionally used designs. urges an increased recognition discusses establishing trustworthiness