6 Basic SDLC Methodologies

6 Basic SDLC Methodologies6 Basic SDLC MethodologiesThe Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is the software development worlds spellcheck - it can flag errors in software creation before theyre discovered (at a much higher cost) in successive stages. But its much more than that, of course SDLC can also lay out a plan for getting everything right the first time.The SDLC process involves several distinct stages, including planning, analysis, design, building, testing, deployment and maintenance. Whats the best SDLC methodology? Here are six methodologies, or models, to consider.Software development lifecycle methodologiesAgileLeanWaterfallIterativeSpiralDevOpsEach of these approaches varies in some ways from the others, but all have a common purpose to help teams deliver high-quality software as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.Reviewing a brief description of the six most common SDLC methodologies may help you decide which is best for your team1. AgileThe Agile model has b een around for about a decade. But lately, it has become a major driving force behind software development in many organizations. Some businesses value the Agile methodology so much that they are now applying it to other types of projects, including non-tech initiatives.In the Agile model, fast failure is a good thing. The approach produces ongoing release cycles, each featuring small, incremental changes from the previous release. At each iteration, the product is tested. The Agile model helps teams identify and address small issues on projects before they evolve into more significant problems, and engage business stakeholders and get their feedback throughout the development process.As part of their embrace of this methodology, many teams are also applying an Agile framework known as Scrum to help structure more complex development projects. Scrum teams work in sprints, which usually last two to four weeks, to complete assigned tasks. Daily Scrum meetings help the whole team monit or progress throughout the project. And the ScrumMaster is tasked with keeping the team focused on its goal. (For more on Scrum, see the Scrum Alliance website.)2. LeanThe Lean model for software development is inspired by lean manufacturing practices and principles. The seven Lean principles (in this order) are eliminate waste, amplify learning, decide as late possible, deliver as fast as possible, empower the team, build integrity in, and see the whole.The Lean process is about working only on what must be worked on at the time, so theres no room for multitasking. Project teams are also focused on finding opportunities to cut waste at every turn throughout the SDLC process, from dropping unnecessary meetings to reducing documentation.The Agile model is actually a Lean method for the SDLC, but with some notable differences. One is how each prioritizes customer satisfaction Agile makes it the top priority from the outset, creating a flexible process where project teams can respond q uickly to stakeholder feedback throughout the SDLC. Lean, meanwhile, emphasizes the elimination of waste as a way to create more overall value for customers - which, in turn, helps to enhance satisfaction.Ready to fill an open role? Use our candidate finder.3. WaterfallSome experts argue that the Waterfall model was never meant to be a process model for real projects (check out the discussion on this topic on StackExchange). Regardless, the Waterfall model is widely considered the oldest of the structured SDLC methodologies. Its also a very straightforward approach finish one phase, then move on to the next. No going back. Each stage relies on information from the previous stage and has its own project plan.The downside of Waterfall is its rigidity. Sure, its easy to understand and simple to manage. But early delays can throw off the entire project timeline. With little room for revisions once a stage is completed, problems cant be fixed until you get to the maintenance stage. This model doesnt work well if flexibility is needed or if the project is long term and ongoing.Even more rigid is the related Verification and Validation model - or V-shaped model. This linear development methodology sprang from the Waterfall approach. Its characterized by a corresponding testing phase for each development stage. Like Waterfall, each stage begins only after the previous one has ended. This SDLC model can be useful, provided your project has no unknown requirements.4. IterativeThe Iterative model is repetition incarnate. Instead of starting with fully known requirements, project teams implement a set of software requirements, then test, evaluate and pinpoint further requirements. A new version of the software is produced with each phase, or iteration. Rinse and repeat until the complete system is ready.Advantages of the Iterative model over other common SDLC methodologies is that it produces a working version of the project early in the process, and makes it less expen sive to implement changes. One disadvantage Repetitive processes can consume resources quickly.One example of an Iterative model is the Rational Unified Process (RUP), developed by IBMs Rational Software division. As explained in this document from IBM, RUP is a process product designed to enhance team productivity that also captures many of the best practices in modern software development in a form that is suitable for a wide range of projects and organizations.RUP divides the development process into four phases inception, when the idea for a project is set elaboration, when the project is further defined, and resources are evaluated construction, when the project is developed and completed and transition, when the product is released. Each phase of the project involves business modeling, analysis and design, implementation, testing, and deployment.5. SpiralOne of the most flexible SDLC methodologies, the Spiral model takes a cue from the Iterative model and its repetition the pr oject passes through four phases (planning, risk analysis, engineering and evaluation) over and over in a spiral until completed, allowing for multiple rounds of refinement.The Spiral model is typically used for large projects. It enables development teams to build a highly customized product, and incorporate user feedback early on in the project. Another benefit of this SDLC model is risk management. Each iteration starts by looking ahead to potential risks, and figuring out how best to avoid or mitigate them.6. DevOpsThe DevOps methodology is the newcomer to the SDLC scene. As this article explains, it emerged from two trends the application of Agile and Lean practices to operations work, and the general shift in business toward seeing the value of collaboration between development and operations staff at all stages of the SDLC process.In a DevOps model, Developers and Operations teams work together closely - and sometimes as one team - to accelerate innovation and the deploymen t of higher-quality and more reliable software products and functionalities. Updates to products are small but frequent. Discipline, continuous feedback and process improvement, and automation of manual development processes are all hallmarks of the DevOps model.Amazon Web Services describes DevOps like this DevOps is the combination of cultural philosophies, practices, and tools that increases an organizations ability to deliver applications and services at high velocity evolving and improving products at a faster pace than organizations using traditional software development and infrastructure management processes. So, like many SDLC models, DevOps is not only an approach to planning and executing work, but also a philosophy that demands significant mindset and culture changes in an organization.Choosing the right SDLC model for your software development project will require careful thought. But keep in mind that a methodology for planning and guiding your project is only one ingr edient for success. Even more important is assembling a solid team of skilled talent committed to moving the project forward through every unexpected challenge or setback.bewerbungsinterview technology candidates right awayIf youre hiring an IT pro, we can help make the process easier. You can see profiles of IT candidates in your area using our online database. Tell us who catches your eye, and we can arrange an interview or placement ASAP.Find web developer candidates in Austin, TexasFind software developer candidates in Boise, IdahoFind help desk analyst candidates in Charlotte, N.C.Find desktop support candidates in Sacramento, Calif.Find database administrator candidates in Tucson, Ariz. Tags