The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) methodologies provide a structured framework for guiding software development and maintenance.
Development teams need to select the right approach for their project based on its needs and requirements. We have curated the top 8 SDLC methodologies that you can consider. Choose the one that best aligns with your project. Let’s get started:
The waterfall model is the oldest surviving SDLC methodology that follows a linear, sequential approach. In this approach, the development team completes each phase before moving on to the next. The five phases include Requirements, Design, Implementation, Verification, and Maintenance.
However, in today’s world, this model is not ideal for large and complex projects, as it does not allow teams to revisit previous phases. That said, the Waterfall Model serves as the foundation for all subsequent SDLC models, which were designed to address its limitations.
This software development approach embraces repetition. In other words, the Iterative model builds a system incrementally through repeated cycles. The development team revisits previous phases, allowing for modifications based on feedback and changing requirements. This approach builds software piece by piece while identifying additional needs as they go along. Each new phase produces a more refined version of the software.
In this model, only the major requirements are defined from the beginning. One well-known iterative model is the Rational Unified Process (RUP), developed by IBM, which aims to enhance team productivity across various project types.
This methodology is similar to the iterative model but differs in its focus. In the incremental model, the product is developed and delivered in small, functional increments through multiple cycles. It prioritizes critical features first and then adapts additional functionalities as requirements evolve throughout the project.
Simply put, the product is not held back until it is fully completed. Instead, it is released in stages, with each increment providing a usable version. This allows for easy incorporation of changes in later increments. However, this approach requires thorough planning and design and may require more resources and effort.
The Agile model is a flexible and iterative approach to software development. Developed in 2001, it combines iterative and incremental models aiming to increase collaboration, gather feedback, and rapid product delivery. It is based on the theory “Fail Fast and Early” which emphasizes quick testing and learning from failures early to minimize risks, save resources, and drive rapid improvement.
The software product is divided into small incremental parts that pass through some or all the SDLC phases. Each new version is tested and feedback is gathered from stakeholders throughout their process. This allows for catching issues early before they grow into major ones. A few of its sub-models include Extreme Programming (XP), Rapid Application Development (RAD), Scrum, and Kanban.
A flexible SDLC approach in which the project cycles through four phases: Planning, Risk Analysis, Engineering, and Evaluation, repeatedly in a figurative spiral until completion. This methodology is widely used by leading software companies, as it emphasizes risk analysis, ensuring that each iteration focuses on identifying and mitigating potential risks.
This model also prioritizes customer feedback and incorporates prototypes throughout the development process. It is particularly suitable for large and complex projects with high-risk factors and a need for early user input. However, for smaller projects with minimal risks, this model may not be ideal due to its high cost.
Derived from Lean Manufacturing principles, the Lean Model focuses on maximizing user value by minimizing waste and optimizing processes. It aligns well with the Agile methodology by eliminating multitasking and encouraging teams to prioritize essential tasks in the present moment.
The Lean Model is often associated with the concept of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), a basic version of the product launched to gather user feedback, understand preferences, and iterate for improvements. Key tools and techniques supporting the Lean model include value stream mapping, Kanban boards, the 5S method, and Kaizen events.
An extension to the waterfall model, the V-model is also known as the verification and validation model. It is categorized by its V-shaped structure that emphasizes a systematic and disciplined approach to software development. In this approach, the verification phase ensures that the product is being built correctly and the validation phase focuses on the correct product is being built. These two phases are linked together by implementation (or coding phase).
This model is best suited for projects with clear and stable requirements and is particularly useful in industries where quality and reliability are critical. However, its inflexibility makes it less suitable for projects with evolving or uncertain requirements.
The DevOps model is a hybrid of Agile and Lean methodologies. It brings Dev and Ops teams together to improve collaboration and aims to automate processes, integrate CI/CD, and accelerate the delivery of high-quality software.It focuses on small but frequent updates, allowing continuous feedback and process improvements. This enables teams to learn from failures, iterate on processes, and encourage experimentation and innovation to enhance efficiency and quality.
DevOps is widely adopted in modern software development to support rapid innovation and scalability. However, it may introduce more security risks as it prioritizes speed over security.
Typo is an intelligent engineering management platform. It is used for gaining visibility, removing blockers, and maximizing developer effectiveness. Through SDLC metrics, you can ensure alignment with business goals and prevent developer burnout. This tool can be integrated with the tech stack to deliver real-time insights. Git, Slack, Calendars, and CI/CD to name a few.
Typo Key Features:
Apart from the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) methodologies mentioned above, there are others you can take note of. Each methodology follows a different approach to creating high-quality software, depending on factors such as project goals, complexity, team dynamics, and flexibility.
Be sure to conduct your own research to determine the optimal approach for producing high-quality software that efficiently meets user needs.
The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process that guides the development and maintenance of software applications.
The main phases of SDLC include:
The purpose of SDLC is to provide a systematic approach to software development. This ensures that the final product meets user requirements, stays within budget, and is delivered on time. It helps teams manage risks, improve collaboration, and maintain software quality throughout its lifecycle.
Yes, SDLC can be applied to various software projects, including web applications, mobile apps, enterprise software, and embedded systems. However, the choice of SDLC methodology depends on factors like project complexity, team size, budget, and flexibility needs.
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