Context: Software transfer is one of the approaches to globalize software development that prescribes transferring a software product from an original development site to another site. This approach is challenged by transferring knowledge from experienced people to inexperienced people. Therefore, the identified challenges and recommendations related to software transfer are vital to a successful software transfer project. Objectives: The main aim of this study is to identify recommendations for transferring software products for further maintenance from receiving site’s perspective. This is achieved by an in-depth understanding of the staged model for the software life cycle, the differences of software transfer type, how software transfers impact software evolvability, and the challenges at the receiving sites after transfers. Methods: In order to fulfill the aim and objectives of the research, the author of this thesis collected data through a literature review and conducted interviews with 10 developers, who were involved in software transfer projects in three different international companies – 6 developers from Alpha company, 3 developers from Beta company, and 1 developer from Gamma company. Through the literature review, the author of this thesis found 35 primary studies relevant to research objectives. For analyzing the data, the author of this thesis used Strauss and Corbin’s open coding and axial coding techniques. Results: In total, 15 challenges for the receiving sites in maintaining transferred software products were identified and placed in 8 categories. Three factors that trigger changes from one product maintenance stage to another were identified. 19 recommendations for planning to transfer a software product were derived from challenges and factors found. These challenges, factors, and recommendations are elaborated in this report. Conclusions: The results of this study both validate and extend current knowledge of software product transfer. There should be more empirical research performed on after transfer period of software product transfer to identify the challenges and recommendations associated with transferring software products. However, the results of this study should be beneficial for companies when transferring software products to remote sites within company.

This thesis investigates the challenges in transferring software product by collecting data through a literature review and conducted interviews with 10 developers, who were involved in software transfer projects in three different international companies and contributes with recommendations to overcome these challenges. The result of the research both validates and extends current knowledge of software product transfer.