Like all products, any type of software starts as an idea before becoming a product that provides value to its end-user. The software development life cycle (SDLC) is a process that is used to explain how software is delivered to the customer in a series of steps.
The most-commonly used SDLC methods include Waterfall, Agile, Iterative, DevOps, Spiral, Lean, and V-Model. These methodologies are different but have a common goal: to produce high-quality software that meets or surpasses the expectations of customers within timeframes and cost estimates.
Let’s take a closer look at how these methodologies contribute to the success of a software product.
Benefits of Using Software Development Life Cycle Methodologies
1. High Level of Control
One of the biggest advantages of SDLC methodologies is it offers some level of control during the development process. This ensures that the final result is consistent with the original requirements from the client, and the design and testing process leading up to the release of the software is well-managed and stable.
2. Repeatable
Another great thing about SDLC methodologies is it’s a repeatable process. In the event that you develop something using a specific model and a similar project comes along, it will be much easier for you to use the same process with a higher level of confidence that it will succeed. Planning, design, build, and test phases can be done over and over, allowing the developers to make gradual improvements at every pass.
This is helped along by the fact that most SDLC methodologies have clear, defined sets of steps. The waterfall model is considered one of the methodologies that have well-defined phases; it has a simple structure and the project will not move forward until the previous phase has been completed.
3. Increases Efficiency
SDLC methodologies are important as it breaks down the entire development process into smaller parts. This makes it much easier to evaluate each stage and gives software developers more freedom to work concurrently on each stage.
Related Content: A Quick Look at the Different SDLC Methodologies and their Benefits
4. Fewer Delays
Most stakeholders and developers find that they have more freedom of options and time when using SDLC methodologies. Having options allows them to leave important decisions until better data or complete hosting programs are available. This means the project can move forward without the fear of ending up in a sudden and unexpected standstill.
5. Flexibility for Teams
Because SDLC methodologies break the entire software development process down, it’s possible to make teams with different specializations to handle each phase. The deployment will be much faster and companies can better respond to market pressure.
Conclusion
There are several software development life cycle methodologies and it’s entirely up to you to choose which one would be best suited for your project. Some teams even combine different methodologies to achieve the results they want, so you can do the same if needed.
Whether you opt for the latest methodology or stick to a more traditional model, always take these things into account: project requirements and size, expected end product, feedback, how much change might be required, team experience, and potential costs of delay.
Related Content: HOW HAVE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT LIFE CYCLE METHODOLOGIES CHANGED?
