Different Methodologies in Software Development Life Cycle

Software Development Life Cycle:

The software development lifecycle or SDLC is a methodology used by software groups designing, developing and testing software. By employing the SDLC cycle, high-quality software that satisfies customers within the deadline is delivered. Learn Different Methodologies used in Software Development Life Cycle.

There are six methodologies of SDLC used by software developers, with each having its advantages. They are

• Waterfall
• Agile
• Lean
• Spiral
• Iterative
• DevOps

It is mandatory to pick the best software development cycle for software projects. Take a look at the various SDLC methodologies with their benefits and drawbacks.

Different Methodologies in Software Development Life Cycle

Agile method :

The agile methodology emphasizes collaborative decision making and every project runs differently. The agile software development lifecycle is an amalgamation of the incremental and iterative process models. Moreover, the agile method concentrates on process adaptability and customer satisfaction by quick delivery of software products.

Phases of Agile process

By taking a look at the agile software development lifecycle, there are six phases as given below.

• • Concept
  • Inception
  • Iteration
  • Release
  • Maintenance
  • Retirement

Cyclical System Development Life Cycle Model:

The cyclical system development life cycle model is a project management model. The best part of the systems development life cycle follows a systematic approach where work is parted into phases for better implementation. The above model defines various mandatory stages to make the project from conception or initial idea to later maintenance and deployment.

Waterfall model:

The waterfall model is a leader in the SDLC cycle and bags the fame for being the first prominently used model in the software industry. The waterfall model stands as an example of a sequential model. In this model, the software development divides into pre-defined phases where every phase needs to be completed for the next stage to initiate. Every stage in a waterfall model works to execute particular activity of the SDLC phase. The phases in the waterfall model are

Benefits of waterfall model :

1. Every phase needs a completion to start the next phase.
2. The planning and upfront documentation permits shifting teams to be informed and travel towards a common goal.
3. Deadlines and milestones are defined clearly.
4. Disciplined organization and proper structuring are mandatory.
5. The waterfall model is simple to implement and employs minimal usage of resources.
6. Before the development, the final estimate and the release date of the product are known.

Drawbacks of waterfall model :

1. Minor errors or software changes may result in complicated mistakes.
2. The client’s feedbacks have no opportunities to be involved in the ongoing project.
3. Testers and developers take more time for documentation.
4. Complex projects that face frequent changes are not compatible with the waterfall model.
5. Fixing errors is possible only during the phase.

Prototype model:

The software development model with a prototype that moves to testing and reworking until the desired prototype occurs is called a prototype model. A prototype model helps to produce the base for the final software or product. The prototype is a trial and error method amongst the client and developer in developing a product. The prototype modelling phases include requirements, quick design and build, user evaluation, refining prototype, implementation and maintenance.

Benefits of prototype model 

1. With active participation in the development process, errors are identified in the initial stage easily.
2. Failure risks become minimal as missing functionality is detected quickly.
3. With the presence of prototypes, there is a better understanding of customers’ requirements.
4. As the customers feel the product at an early stage, customer satisfaction improves.
5. The prototype model helps in flexible designing and innovation.

Drawbacks of prototype model

1. The prototype model is a time consuming and slow process.
2. Customers’ requirements keep changing as a result of poor documentation.
3. It is challenging for the developers to include all the changes demanded by the customers.
4. Since the prototype model is quick, customers assume for early delivery of the product.
5. If the initial prototype is not satisfactory, the customers lose interest.

V-model 

V model is also known as the verification or validation model. However, the V shape life cycle follows a sequential execution path. The disciplined model employs a testing phase parallel to every development phase. The V model is similar to the waterfall model, where testing happens in every stage with the development phase in a sequential manner.

Benefits of V model 

1. Test designing and planning activities take place before coding. Hence the success rate is high and saves time.
2. Effortless and easy to use
3. Excellent for small projects as the needs are easily understood.

Drawbacks of V model

1. Least flexible and very rigid.
2. The changes in the mid-way need an update of test documents.
3. There are no early prototypes of the software as the development of software is in the implementation phase.

Spiral model 

The spiral model involves the amalgamation of iterative and waterfall models. Moreover, it is a risk-driven software development process. The model supports risk handling. The model permits incremental product release through each iteration around the spiral.

Benefits of the spiral model 

1. The spiral model has increased risk analysis.
2. Cost valuation becomes easy as the prototype takes place in small fragments.
3. Changes in addition to functionality take place in the later stage.

Drawbacks of the spiral model

1. As there are intermediate phases, documentation is more.
2. The spiral software model isn’t suggested for small projects as it results in higher costs.
3. A strict following of the model is mandatory for smooth operation.

Iterative model 

The iterative or incremental model is where specific software breaks into multiple iterations where every iteration is a complete developmental loop resulting in the release of the software. In the iterative model, the project grows from iteration to iteration that delivers the final product.

Benefits of iterative model 

1. Testing and debugging in an iterative model is effortless.
2. The development and improvement of the product follow a step by step process.
3. The iterative model offers more time for design and less time for documentation.

Drawbacks of iterative model 

1. Risk analysis mandates highly skilled resources.
2. Due to changes in requirements, there is an increase in budget.
3. Project completion is unknown at the beginning, which is a risk.

Incremental approach 

In an incremental model, the requirements are split into several standalone modules of the software development cycle. Every module in the incremental approach passes through the requirement, design, implementation and testing phases. Each successive release becomes a function for the previous output till the complete system proves successful.

Benefits of the incremental approach 

1. Debugging and testing work effortlessly during smaller iteration.
2. Risk management is more straightforward as challenging aspects are detected and worked during iteration.
3. The incremental approach is flexible as it’s less costly while changing the requirements and scope.

The drawback of the incremental approach 

1. Increased cost than the waterfall model.
2. A complete and clear picture of the whole process is mandatory before breaking down and developing.
3. Good planning is essential for successful completion.

Conclusion 

For pocket-friendly and high-quality software products, the Different Methodologies in Software Development Life Cycle play a significant role. The SDLC methodologies eradicate the pitfalls and help achieve divergent goals for providing better software projects. To become a successful software developer, hands-on experience, updated knowledge on SDLC is essential.

By partnering with GSS in Canada, candidates hit the jackpot of gaining in-depth knowledge on online software test training. GSS are pioneers in SDLC methodology and software testing training paving the way for software enthusiasts to get top positions in global companies.