Agency and Learning in the Work of Software Professionals

Abstract

This chapter addresses software professionals’ agency and learning in work characterized by a need for innovative learning and fluency in renewing work practices. The study presented was conducted with software professionals in a medium-sized Finnish company producing digital business applications. We applied a mixed-method approach to data collection and analysis. Regarding professional agency, we found a range of opportunities to influence work-related matters. The professionals were primarily able to influence their working hours and the order of their work tasks, but had fewer opportunities to influence customer projects, or their salary. To some extent they were able to develop themselves as individuals and to share practices and knowledge within professional groups and projects. However, they expressed concerns about the organizational aim of short-term efficiency, which they viewed as constraining long-term individual and organizational development. Based on the findings, we discuss how professional agency and learning at work are intertwined, and how they can be cultivated among professionals who create tools for digitalization.