Introduction to Types of Application Development Methodologies
Building an application requires a particular set of processes that includes designing, developing, implementing, and testing that is integral for a successful outcome.
Almost every organization runs through these processes to create the most authentic results.
Since every application is different, the requirement with every project differs too. For example, when initiating, certain factors are considered, such as technical specifications, number of possible revisions, number of people required in building the application, their experience working with the methodologies, and the project’s expected deadline. It is essential to quickly understand the project’s basics and nature to incorporate the most suitable application development methodology.
Here at Invictus Star, we make sure that every step is taken after careful consideration and implemented thoroughly with the help of an ideal method to produce exceptional results.
What is SDLC?
SDLC is a framework that enables the development team to build an application proficiently in a reasonably priced, well-planned, and efficient way. SDLC comprises the following stages:
- Planning and Analysis (Requirement)
- Designing
- Development
- Testing
- Implementation
- Maintenance
SDLC helps create a software or application that produces value and plays a vital role in meeting the set deadlines, provides a better idea of cost estimation, and even surpasses the customer’s expectations.
It provides a clear road that minimizes the chances of time wastage and enhances the development process’s overall efficiency. These steps can be further divided as per the project’s requirement into even smaller blocks or can be merged, if necessary. For example, you can run the testing phase simultaneously with the development phase. It all comes down to the nature of your products.
After performing each step, the final product is launched in the market and maintained as necessary. The product is further refined for the customers to continue making it valuable for its users.
Now several software development models are utilized during the software development process.
These process models are comprised of several steps to enhance the overall efficiency of the software development process.
We are going to talk about the three most widely used SDLC models:
- Waterfall Model
- Agile Model
- RAD Model
Waterfall Model
In a Waterfall Model, you follow all the steps in a sequence, but you cannot go in reverse; A model that is primarily dependent on planning and sequencing. Everything flows in a downward direction. In other words, everything regarding the project is outlined during the planning and analysis stages of the project’s life cycle.
Every phase of the model must be completed entirely before moving on to the next phase. It is to note that no changes or modifications are to be made once you have moved on to the next step. Although this is a significant constraint, managing becomes less complex and easier to handle since it moves in a linear direction. However, the waterfall development model may come out as old-style or slow. And due to its steady process, it may turn out to be a bit costly for some projects.
Read more: benefits-of-erp-software
When the planning process is completed, the entire application is built altogether and then tested to perform the final implementation further. However, you should know that the customer can only see the product once it is ready, and at times the development process may take time. And if the product is not up to the requirement, your team would have to start the whole project again.
With Waterfall Model, you need to be extra careful and cautious to bring out the exact result.
When using a Waterfall Model, the client’s instructions are sent in one go and cannot go through any change recurringly. It is understood that before the development process, the manager and customer are on the same page. If there is a small-scale project with one output, you can consider this model.
If you ask Invictus Star, then choose Waterfall Model if:
- There aren’t many modifications to make
- Fixed project budget
- You and your team have experience working on a similar project
- The customer is clear about his objectives and knows what he wants
Agile Model
Agile Model or Agile Application Development is ideal for projects of a big scale. This Methodology also works on iteration, but it stays focused on a single feature at a time. Every step is completed systematically while the customers also remain on board.
Since the project is developed in iterations, it is convenient for the team to make any necessary changes or find any defects that are to be fixed. The agile method involves sprints and a particular period to build a specific feature. Complete SDLC (i.e., building, testing, and deploying) is implemented on every component in each sprint that significantly aids in refining the product’s outcome, with continuous improvement, reviews, and valuable advancements. In other words, the whole project is divided into smaller units to make it manageable. Therefore, the
The Agile Model works best for large-scale projects. A sprint lasts for two weeks or ten days and consists of the following outline: Planning, Developing, Testing, Delivering, and Feedback.
When the sprint is completed, the finished product is presented to the customer.
Agile Methodology depends on a unified contribution from developers and designers, testers, and technical writers.
However, it cannot go unnoticed that Agile Methodology asks for a considerable time commitment. Also, each feature has to be entirely completed within the iteration to receive the user’s consent.
If you ask Invictus Star, then choose Agile Model if:
- The project needs a breakage into sprints
- Your project leader knows what he is doing
- An extensive and highly skilled teams with solid expertise
RAD Model
RAD or rapid application development revolves around producing a working prototype of the application quickly and then working on improving modifications. This Methodology requires close interaction of the development team and the customer until the project is in progress. Since there is continuous iteration, the teams generally consist of high-level developers well-versed in their area of expertise. The issues or changes are discussed and implemented in real-time, which leads to faster development and solid communication. It has four phases: Requirements planning, User Design, Rapid Construction, and Cutover.
Since the team and the customers are working together, it is relatively easy to improve the product’s functionality without the constraint of only moving forward. The initial steps make it easier for everyone to understand the outcome of the product. Every iteration significantly aids in refining the application more and more.
It works faster than the Waterfall model, as changes can be made whenever necessary. However, we cannot forget that the team must have high skills and capability of completing complex challenges due to the consistent changes.
If you ask Invictus Star, then choose RAD Model if:
- Your team consists of highly skilled developers
- A customer that is clear about his goals
- Your team can work in a fast-paced environment
Conclusion
When it comes to opting for a suitable Methodology, it is significant to understand the project’s requirements and the business goals it aims to achieve. It would help if you clearly understand the outcome and the target you want to accomplish. The waterfall model can be a good choice for big projects, but you may want to go for an Agile methodology when working on a complex task. So always pick the one that best fits your project’s overall needs.
