Which Software Development Life Cycle Methodology is Best for You?

Quick Overview: Choosing the best software development life cycle methodology for your business hinges on your project’s specific needs, team dynamics, and business goals. In this blog, we will dive into the details of SDLC, its key phases, and how different SDLC models can help you achieve your project success in terms of budget and resources. Lastly, you will get an idea of how Radixweb can help you gain the best of SDLC methodology and get over the edge.

We know that with the rise of new technologies and the evolving digital landscape, organizations are under increasing pressure to deliver high-quality software solutions quickly and efficiently. And to fulfill their clients’ requirements and stay ahead in the market, they need a prolific approach to software development that minimizes risks, maximizes productivity, and ensures alignment with business objectives.

That’s when the most demanding structured framework, software development life cycle (SDLC), is used to create a roadmap for turning business needs into fully functional software.

SDLC breaks down the development process into manageable stages, from planning and design to development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Each software development life cycle phase plays an important role in reducing errors, controlling costs, and delivering a product that meets both technical specifications and user expectations.

For CTOs, project managers, and business leaders, it’s essential to understand SDLC and its phases. And that’s not a technical blueprint but also a strategic framework to ensure your software investments generate real business value.

In this comprehensive blog, we will break down everything you need to know about the software development life cycle (SDLC), including models and stages. This blog sums up some of the best tried-and-tested SDLC methodologies to help you pick the best-suited one for your organization.

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What is SDLC?

Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process that is used to produce software with the highest quality, lowest cost, and in the shortest possible production time. The primary aim of SDLC is to produce robust software that meets business objectives along with customer demands.

The SDLC defines the roadmap with individual stages or phases that have their own process and deliverables. It’s a well-structured flow of phases that enables organizations to quickly produce high-quality software, which is ready for production use without any bugs or errors.

When you hire software developers, they use various SDLC methodologies to build modern software, including mobile applications, cloud applications, web apps, and more. Adhering to the SDLC method optimizes the final outcome.

Importance of SDLC

The SDLC is essential as it streamlines the software development process and approach by involving the stakeholders at the right time. As a result, it ensures that your project will be successful.

Some of the benefits you can leverage with SDLC are:

• Reduced Risks: It helps identify and mitigate potential risks early on during development.
• Better Quality Assurance: It sets high standards for quality at every software development phase.
• Cost Efficiency: SDLC minimizes costly mistakes by identifying issues early.
• Improved Planning: SDLC divides the development process into clearly defined stages, such as planning, design, coding, testing, and deployment. This enables better project management.
• Transparency: It keeps stakeholders informed with visible progress checkpoints.
• Higher Quality: By integrating testing and QA, SDLC reduces the likelihood of software defects and security vulnerabilities.

7 Stages of the Software Development Life Cycle

The system development lifecycle consists of seven separate stages. Each stage requires different specialists and skills to build a successful software development. Let’s understand the common SDLC phases below:

Stage 1: Planning

Planning is the first stage of the software development lifecycle, which helps you define the purpose and scope of the software. It is the foundation of the SDLC method and paves the way for the successful execution of upcoming phases.

In this phase, the team works collaboratively to understand the end user needs and meet software goals. The team tries to answer a couple of questions, like “What type of problems will this software solve?” and “Will it fulfill end users’ demands?”

The team considers software development trends to create a feasibility study. This helps them define a rough plan of how an application will work. With the help of predictive analysis and AI simulation tools, they validate the idea at an early stage. As a result, project managers can then see clearly what long-term resources are needed to build a solution, whether the market would accept it, and what potential roadblocks there might be.

The planning process helps you identify how your software solution can solve a specific problem. In fact, this initial phase lays a solid foundation for an efficient software development process by defining clear roles, goals, responsibilities, and expectations.

Stage 2: Requirement Analysis

The second phase of SDLC is Requirement Analysis. In this phase, you have to identify and gather the users' final requirements. Moreover, you must identify the answer: "How will this software fulfill our users’ expectations?”.

The team members involved in the project connect with stakeholders – analysts, users, and clients - to gather information. With a collaborative approach, they conduct interviews and try to find users' answers and expectations.

Once they have all the data on the board, they analyze it and distinguish the essential features. As a result, it helps them to understand the software’s functionality, performance, security, and user experience.

Moreover, they also create a strategic plan for successful software development. This ensures the reliability, accuracy, and feasibility of the developed software.

Stage 3: Design

The next software development life cycle phase is Design and Prototyping. This phase is responsible for creating a framework for a software product.

Here, a high-performing software development team defines the functionality and design of the software. The primary aim of this phase is to provide an overview of the database design, user interfaces and usability, navigation, and software structure. This phase ensures the software is easy to use and performs well.

In fact, the development team creates data flow diagrams and user interface mock-ups to outline the software functionality. They also establish the software's limits, including those pertaining to hardware, performance, and other system-related variables.

You can also use any of the latest prototyping tools offering automation and AI features to streamline this stage. It’s a good practice to utilize AI monitoring tools to speed up your early-stage process.

In short, the design phase is a bridge between software’s purpose and its execution (development).

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Stage 4: Development (Coding)

In the software development phase, engineers and developers write code and build the application based on given requirements and documentation.

This development phase aims to create efficient and user-friendly software functionalities. It includes both front-end development and back-end development. Developers utilize the appropriate programming languages and tech stacks to write code guided by SDD and coding guidelines.

DevOps engineers play a critical role in providing developers with self-service resources to expedite the testing and rollout process. Along with coding, the team members also analyze and review code to identify bugs or inconsistencies. This code assessment ensures that the software is reliable and robust. Also, the software undergoes testing for functionality.

Well, this phase gives a functional kick-start to the software for usage. It actually consists of planning, analyzing, and designing efforts of the preceding stages. Even if it might not be perfect, it's a big step in the right direction for a useful software solution.

Stage 5: Testing

The testing phase of SDLC is about quality inspection of the software on a production line. In this phase, professional software testers and QA experts discover vulnerabilities, errors, and bugs.

Here, the software is thoroughly tested for bugs and glitches that might have slipped through during coding. By following a seamless software product development process, the testing phase ensures that your software reaches the end-users without any bugs or errors.

Setting precise parameters in accordance with the needs of the software is the first step in the testing process. It entails determining the prerequisite software conditions and presenting several scenarios to investigate these prerequisites. This stage facilitates the development of a successful testing plan.

After establishing test cases, developers rigorously test the software through various methods, including unit, security, integration, system, and acceptance testing. These tests range from examining individual components to verifying the full system's functionality. As a matter of fact, 90% of software development teams utilize functional testing as their primary testing method.

When they find any bugs, they create a document and send it back to developers for fixes. Once resolved, the software is re-tested until it meets all requirements.

This stage of testing ensures the software’s robustness and reliability.

Stage 6: Deployment

Now is the time to push the product to the production environment. The carefully tested and optimized software is rolled out to end users during the deployment phase.

A particular strategy is implemented for enterprise software development, which ensures that user experience is not adversely affected. Moreover, we can utilize several methods like Big Bang, Blue-Green, or Canary deployments, depending on the software and its audience.

However, you must know that deployment is not just about releasing or launching the software. It’s about ensuring users can operate it with ease. This responsibility might include writing user manuals, conducting training sessions, or providing on-site support.

In fact, the deployment phase of SDLC is not the end, but it’s a notable milestone. It represents the start of the software’s ability to achieve its goals as it moves from the project phase to the product phase.

Stage 7: Maintenance

The maintenance phase is the last but not least important stage of the software project lifecycle process. The maintenance phase is defined by ongoing support and enhancements that ensure the software will perform well and satisfy user demands.

Initially, developers can encounter issues that were not detected during initial testing. Therefore, they should respond quickly to issues that are brought to their attention and make necessary changes to ensure the software is stable and easy to use.

The main goal is to adapt to the software’s evolving requirements. This adaptation entails reacting to user input, fixing unforeseen issues, and updating the software based on users’ changing needs. In fact, it’s a continuous process of refining and adapting.

Utilizing software development automation, which continuously evaluates performance, uptime, and errors, can help developers with ongoing quality assurance. This is referred to as ‘instrumentation’.

Top Five Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) Best Practices

Businesses can implement any method to simplify their software development lifecycle (SDLC) processes. However, we have figured out some of the best SDLC best practices for you to understand how it can help you deliver the best results.

Shift Towards DevSecOps

Implementing software security from the initial stage is the most important strategy for organizations. This method establishes a standard for protection throughout the SDLC and incorporates security into the code.

Although DevOps practices enhance development, incorporating security checks as early as possible (shift left security) can significantly improve the security posture of applications.

Establish Secure Design Requirements

Standardization is a key secure SDLC best practice, ensuring consistent security integration and promoting secure code deployment. To standardize, you have to include security best practices in design requirements for new code and use approved tools throughout the software project lifecycle to guide developers at each stage.

Create a Comprehensive Documentation

Creating a detailed document about every piece of information pushes you toward the success line. It provides clarity on design decisions, coding standards, and processes throughout the SDLC. It enables easier onboarding for new team members and simplifies future maintenance or updates.

Implement Code Reviews

When you follow Agile software development methodology, the work is decentralized, allowing stakeholders to review security at multiple phases of SDLC. Also, developers play an important role in providing constructive feedback as new features are added. A code review checklist, with predefined guidelines and questions, ensures an organized approach to quality checks before code is approved into the codebase.

Control Access to Code Repositories

New vulnerabilities could arise for custom software development. Therefore, continuous integration and testing are required to improve design and security. Your business must secure development environments to detect and correct malicious code. Controlling access to code repositories ensures only authorized users can submit code, making it harder for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.

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7 Basic Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) Methodologies/Models

Now you have understood the importance of the life cycle of software development process; it’s time to dive into some basic but core methodologies of SDLC.

In fact, SDLC encompasses various models or methodologies that come with software development and maintenance processes. Let’s go through some of the most commonly used types of software development life cycle models.

1. Waterfall Model

The waterfall model is a linear type of method, which divides the project into discreet project plans, each with its own tasks and objectives.

The waterfall model represents that each stage of the project must be completed before the next stage can begin. Therefore, extensive documentation is required to note down details, ensuring all operations are successfully completed before moving on to the next stage. Also, you must have proper and effective communication between team members working at different stages.

However, moving to the next stage is impossible if one phase is incomplete. While a Waterfall model gives a high degree of structure and clarity, it can be fairly rigid. It is challenging to go back and alter things afterward. This model ensures the consistent use of minimal resources and the unchanging behavior of the project.

Points to Consider for the Waterfall Model

• The Waterfall model follows a strict, linear sequence of stages.
• This model is best suited for projects where requirements are clear, stable, and unlikely to change.
• Waterfall relies heavily on detailed documentation at each stage.
• There is little flexibility to adapt to changes or feedback during development.
• The rigid phase structure can result in longer delivery times.
• Waterfall is ideal for projects with straightforward, well-understood requirements.

2. Agile Model

The agile methodology is the most popular SDLC methodology among developers. It strongly focuses on collaboration between cross-functional teams and the implementation of small changes based on regular client feedback. Project requirements may change during the SDLC, and this is taken into consideration in the Agile approach.

Here, the team decides on a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that includes the most essential features and works to complete it in the fewest number of iterations.

The customer has access to the results of each development iteration and can communicate with the team whether they are satisfied. As a result, work is completed in regularly iterated cycles that are known as sprints – a project usually lasts from two to four weeks.

This Agile SDLC model ensures quality, eliminates waste, and focuses on efficiency at every step.

Points to Consider for the Agile Model

• Follows an iterative approach, breaking the project into small, manageable sprints.
• It thrives in dynamic environments where requirements may change frequently.
• Emphasizes close collaboration between cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and customers.
• Promotes continuous integration, testing, and deployment throughout the development cycle.
• Customer feedback is regularly gathered and incorporated.
• Demands strong team discipline, constant involvement, and commitment to meet sprint deadlines.

3. Iterative Model

The iterative model, as the name suggests, is about repetition. This SDLC model allows dedicated software development teams to implement a set of software requirements, test them, and improve them instead of fully understanding all the requirements.

It’s easy to manage risks, but repeated iteration could lead to scope change and underestimation of the available resources. This model is suitable for projects that require flexibility and the capacity to manage numerous iterations.

The iterative model is frequently used because of its adaptability and relative ease of accommodating changes.

Points to Consider for the Iterative Model

• Risks and issues can be identified and addressed early in the process.
• Testing is conducted at the end of each iteration.
• The iterative model focuses on developing the software in small, incremental cycles.
• This model accommodates changes in requirements throughout the project.
• By delivering functional increments after each iteration, the iterative model enables faster deployment of working features, leading to quicker time to market.
• Success in the iterative model depends on frequent user or stakeholder feedback to ensure that each iteration aligns with expectations.

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4. V-Shaped Model

The v-shaped SDLC methodology is also known as the validation and verification model. The aim of this model is to focus on testing every stage before moving onto the next stage. In fact, this model requires a rigorous time period and multiple resources.

The v-shaped model is similar to the waterfall model but with extensive parallel testing added in during the early stage of the SDLC process.

The verification and validation model is typically inflexible and resource-intensive. It might be suitable for projects with specific requirements where testing is crucial.

Points to Consider for the V-Shaped Model

• The v-shaped model follows a rigid, sequential process similar to the Waterfall model but emphasizes validation and verification at each stage.
• The v-shaped model is best suited for projects with well-defined and stable requirements.
• Each development phase is directly tied to a corresponding testing phase, ensuring thorough validation at every step of the process.
• The model has limited flexibility to adapt to changing requirements or feedback after the project moves into later stages.
• Extensive documentation is required at each stage to ensure smooth transitions.
• Ideal for small to medium projects where the scope is predictable, and the risk of requirement changes is low.

5. Spiral Model

The spiral model in SDLC processes can be the best choice if you are unclear about the project requirements and looking for frequent changes. Projects that need help with development and enhancement processes should lead towards this method.

It is a prototype-based model with an iterative feature to work on developing new versions of the software. The spiral model’s risk-driven feature enables customers to implement a prototype, specification, or simulation-oriented approach to their project. It also allows you to create highly customized products to fulfill your customers’ needs.

Additionally, prototypes can be built at every stage, allowing risks to be identified and controlled. This is only feasible for large companies with massive budgets because it adds to costs and takes time to develop.

Points to Consider for the Spiral Model

• The Spiral model is designed for high-risk projects.
• It is a combination of iterative development and systematic risk assessment.
• This model supports evolving requirements.
• Due to its focus on risk analysis and iterative refinement, the Spiral model can be resource-intensive and costly.
• Each phase requires detailed documentation, particularly in risk assessment and mitigation.
• The spiral model is suited for large, complex projects that involve significant risks.

6. The Big Bang Model

The big bang model is one of the simplest models of SDLC, and it is mostly used to create and deliver a wide range of ideas. This model is suitable for those projects with no clear objectives or vision of what their final product should look like.

This particular model starts from nothing as it doesn’t have a defined and strict process. Moreover, there’s no requirement for much planning and scheduling. However, it costs a lot of money since you never know when things will be completed, and they will almost certainly change course multiple times, and so, takes longer than expected when it comes to coding.

The big bang model is primarily utilized for academic purposes or small-scale projects. Also, teams without predetermined release dates or specific requirements should use it.

Points to Consider for the Big Bang Model

• The big bang model lacks a formal development process.
• Due to its exploratory nature, the Big Bang model is characterized by high uncertainty.
• Documentation is often minimal or non-existent, which can lead to challenges in maintaining the code.
• This model allows for quick development and rapid prototyping.
• The lack of structured planning means that risks are not formally assessed.
• The big bang model is most appropriate for small, simple projects or prototypes where requirements are not clearly defined, and flexibility is essential.

7. RAD Model

When you have a unique idea that needs complete confidentiality and intends to reach the market as an initiator to take the first-mover advantage, the Rapid Application Development (RAD) model works best for such projects. This methodology of software development life cycle is an adaptive approach employed when there is no time for extensive planning.

It's important to remember that these models are not exclusive, and development teams frequently combine different approaches depending on the project's particular requirements. The selection of an SDLC model is determined by various factors, including the project needs, budget, timeliness, and adaptability.

Developers execute the project not through planning but via prototypes and testing adaptations. Here, testing also plays an integral part as the project changes rely on it. You can launch the product with its minimum features and based on the customers' feedback.

Points to Consider for the RAD Model

• The RAD model emphasizes quick development and iteration through rapid prototyping.
• RAD requires close collaboration between developers, designers, and users.
• This model is suited for projects with evolving or unclear requirements.
• RAD demands highly skilled and experienced teams capable of quickly turning user feedback into functional prototypes.
• Due to its fast pace, RAD often requires more resources in terms of time, personnel, and tools.
• RAD works well for medium-sized projects where a fast turnaround is essential, and requirements are expected to evolve over time.

Major Benefits of SDLC

Here, we have covered primary and common SDLC methodologies software development companies offer. Employing the most suitable SDLC model based on your project will bring many benefits.

So, it’s time to discuss the benefits of software development life cycle provides:

• Improved Project Planning: SDLC provides a structured framework for project management and execution.
• Risk Mitigation: SDLC enables developers to identify and address risks early in the development process.
• Efficient Resource Allocation: It ensures optimal use of resources by defining roles and responsibilities.
• Enhanced Quality: It improves software quality and reduces bugs with continuous testing and validation.
• Better Documentation: Ensure that there is comprehensive documentation at each stage, which will aid future maintenance.
• Clear Milestones: SDLC models help you define specific phases and deliverables, improving project tracking.
• Cost Control: It gives you an estimated budget by providing clear estimates for each phase.
• Customer Satisfaction: Regular feedback and iteration align development with user needs.
• Predictability: SDLC methodology provides a clear development path, reducing uncertainty and delays.

Disadvantages of SDLC

As we know, every coin has two sides. In the same way, SDLC models also come with some drawbacks. Let’s understand the disadvantages of SDLC.

• Rigidity: Some SDLC models like waterfall are inflexible and hard to adapt to changes.
• Time-Consuming: Sequential models can result in long development cycles. As a result, it will cause delayed delivery.
• Costly for Complex Projects: Iterative models like spiral can be resource-intensive and expensive.
• Delayed Testing: Testing often occurs late in models like waterfall, leading to late discovery of issues.
• Not Suitable for Unclear Requirements: SDLC models like v-shaped struggle with projects that have evolving or unclear requirements.
• Resource Dependency: Agile and RAD models require highly skilled and collaborative teams, making them resource-heavy.
• Limited Risk Management: Models like big bang do not focus on risk assessment, leading to unpredictable outcomes.

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How Can Radixweb Help You with SDLC Requirements?Software development life cycles continue to evolve out of numerous trials and errors in the IT industry. For modern developers, there's hardly any reason to fall into the same traps people fell into years ago. Now, we have a lot more than just a few proven and effective SDLC methodologies, and the advantages are wide-reaching. Moreover, it will surely enable you to set up system development processes that deliver the best outcomes.At Radixweb, we understand how important it is to implement project management strategies. Being a leading software consulting service provider, we have a proven track record of delivering innovative software solutions that perfectly fit our clients’ business goals and requirements across all industries.If you are looking for a reliable software development company, now is the right time to connect with our experts. They will turn your idea into a top-quality software product by employing the right SDLC methodology for you.