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8 Software Development Methodologies Explained

Software development teams are known for using a wide variety of agile methodologies, approaches, and tools to bring value to customers. Depending on the needs of the team and the product's stakeholders, it’s common for teams to deploy and utilize a combination of software development methodologies.

Most dev teams combine methodologies and frameworks to build their own unique approach to product development. You’ll find there are plenty of overlapping principles from one methodology to the next. The key is choosing a system and working as a team to fine-tune and improve that approach so you can continue to reduce waste, maximize efficiency, and master collaboration.

In this post, we’ll outline and compare the following eight software development processes:

1. Agile software development methodology

2. Waterfall methodology

3. Feature driven development (FDD)

4. lean software development methodology, 5. scrum software development methodology, 6. extreme programming (xp), 7. rapid application development (rad), 8. devops deployment methodology.

Agile is the most common term used to describe development methods. It’s often used as an umbrella term to label any methodology that’s agile in nature, meaning an iterative process that reduces waste and maximizes efficiency.

Most software development methodologies are agile with a strong emphasis on iteration, collaboration, and efficiency, as opposed to traditional project management. It’s like comparing jazz to classical music. 🎷

Traditional, linear management methods, such as the waterfall method we’ll cover below, are like classical music, led by one conductor who has a set plan for how the music should be played. The agile process, on the other hand, is more like jazz, which comes together through collaboration, experimentation, and iteration between band members. It’s adaptive and evolves with new ideas, situations, and directions.

2. The waterfall methodology

The waterfall approach is a traditional methodology that’s not very common in software development anymore. For many years, the waterfall model was the leading methodology, but its rigid approach couldn’t meet the dynamic needs of software development.

It’s more common to see the waterfall method used for project management rather than product development. At the beginning of a project, project managers gather all of the necessary information and use it to make an informed plan of action up front. Usually, this plan is a linear, step-by-step process with one task feeding into the next, giving it the “waterfall” name.

The approach is plan-driven and rigid, leaving little room for adjustments. It’s more or less the opposite of agile, prioritizing sticking to the plan rather than adapting to new circumstances.

Feature driven development is also considered an older methodology. Although it uses some agile principles, it’s viewed as the predecessor of today’s agile and lean methodologies.

As the name says, this process focuses on frequently implementing client-valued features. It’s an iterative process with all eyes on delivering tangible results to end users. The process is adaptive, improving based on new data and results that are collected regularly to help software developers identify and react to errors.

This kind of focused agile methodology can work for some teams that want a highly structured approach and clear deliverables while still leaving some freedom for iteration.

Lean software development comes from the principles of lean manufacturing. At its core, lean development strives to improve efficiency by eliminating waste. By reducing tasks and activities that don’t add real value, team members can work at optimal efficiency.

The five lean principles provide a workflow that teams use to identify waste and refine processes. Lean is also a guiding mindset that can help people work more efficiently, productively, and effectively.

The philosophies and principles of lean can be applied to agile and other software development methodologies. Lean development provides a clear application for scaling agile practices across large or growing organizations.

Scrum is a system regularly used by software development teams. Like many software development methodologies, Scrum is agile, focusing on a value-driven approach. The Scrum process is based on empiricism, which is the theory that knowledge comes from hands-on experience and observable facts.

One Scrum takes place over a preset amount of time called a sprint. Usually, the time frame is between two to four weeks and the Scrum is at the beginning of the sprint. The goal of each sprint is to yield an imperfect but progressing version of a product to bring to stakeholders so that feedback can be integrated right away into the next sprint.

The specific goals of each sprint are determined by a product owner who orders and prioritizes backlog items (the artifacts that need completion). The sprint process repeats over and over again with the development team adjusting and iterating based on successes, failures, and stakeholder feedback.

Learn more about Scrum — the complete program planning solution for Jira.

Extreme programming , also called XP, is a methodology based on improving software quality and responsiveness. It’s an agile approach that evolves based on customer requirements; the ultimate goal is producing high-quality results. Quality isn’t just limited to the final product — it applies to every aspect of the work, ensuring a great work experience for developers, programmers, and managers.

Decision-making in extreme programming is based on five values: communication, simplicity, feedback, courage, and respect. The specifics of XP can’t apply to all situations, but the general framework can provide value no matter the context.

Rapid application development (RAD), sometimes called rapid application building (RAB), is an agile methodology that aims to produce quality results at a low-cost investment. The process prioritizes rapid prototyping and frequent iteration.

Rapid application development begins with defining the project requirements. From there, teams design and build imperfect prototypes to bring to stakeholders as soon as possible. Prototyping and building repeat over and over through iterations until a product is complete and meets customer requirements.

This is ideal for smaller projects with a well-defined objective. The process helps developers make quick adjustments based on frequent feedback from stakeholders. It’s all about creating quick prototypes that can get in front of users for constructive feedback as soon as possible. This feedback is pulled into the user design so that development decisions are based on the direct thoughts and concerns of those who will use the product.

The DevOps deployment methodology is a combination of Dev (software development) and Ops (information technology operations). Together, they create a set of practices designed to improve communication and collaboration between the departments responsible for developing a product.

It's an ongoing loop of communication between product developers and Ops teams (IT operations.) Like so many agile processes, it relies on continuous feedback to help teams save time, increase customer satisfaction, improve launch speed, and reduce risks.

The steps of DevOps deployment repeat, aiming to increase customer satisfaction with new features, functionality, and improvements. However, this methodology has some drawbacks. Some customers don’t want continuous updates to their systems once they are satisfied with an end product.

Software development made easy

Most software development teams use a combination of methodologies and frameworks to fit their team size, team dynamics, and the type of work being completed. The key is to use an agile methodology and work together to continually improve your systems as you learn and grow.

Easy Agile is dedicated to helping teams work better together with agile. We design agile apps for Jira with simple, collaborative, and flexible functionality. From team agility with Easy Agile TeamRhythm , to scaled agility with Easy Agile Programs , our apps can help your agile teams deliver better for your customers.

Book a 1:1 demo to learn more about our suite of Jira tools, or contact our team if you have additional questions. We offer a free, 30-day trial, so you can try out our products before making a commitment.

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What Is a Software Development Methodology? - A Quick Tour to All the Prevalent Types

Trung Tran | 03/02/2023

Whether it is in-house or software development outsourcing , picking the right methodology for your project is significantly important. In this list, we are going to take you on a quick tour of the common software development methodologies as well as give you some clues on how to choose the right one for your software projects. Let’s get started.

What Is a Software Development Methodology?

At its essence, a software development or software engineering methodology is a set of principles and techniques used to guide the entire software development life cycle toward the successful completion of projects. It typically encompasses a number of steps and stages, such as requirements gathering, prototyping, design, coding, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Each step is designed to ensure the software works correctly and meets the end user’s needs.

All the Popular Software Development Methodologies

Regarding project management, there are many different software development methodologies to consider. Depending on each approach you pick, the stages and tasks involved in the software development process will differ accordingly. Indeed, it is hard to decide between one and another, and there will be no one-size-fits-all approach for every business or project.

Waterfall Development Methodology

This is the traditional software development method and follows a sequential process. Waterfall involves the creation of software in stages, with each stage concluded before moving to the next. This is a rigid linear model that progresses downward like a waterfall, hence its name. In Waterfall methodology, software developers have no worry about the overlapping of work between one stage and another. The Waterfall development method does not suit complex projects; it is the best for the one that has a clear scope, is relatively simple, and does not require many changes.

Agile Software Development Methodology

This approach enables development teams to design a disciplined software management process that is able to quickly adapt and respond to changes in technology or requirements. Agile focuses on iterative deliverables, customer collaboration, and continuous delivery — all of which are designed to make the development process more efficient by allowing for quick changes and adaptations as needed.

Compared to other software development methodologies, Agile is a much more flexible and adaptive approach, which is the reason why it is becoming increasingly popular and widely adopted by most software development projects.

Scrum Methodology

Scrum is a subset of the Agile development methodology that emphasizes collaboration and encourages cross-functional teams to work together in order to complete tasks. This iterative approach is based on the concept of “sprints,” which are short cycles of work that last no longer than a month. During each sprint, tasks are identified, prioritized, and assigned to members of the development team. This approach allows teams to adjust priorities quickly as needed throughout the software development processes.

Kanban Methodology

This is an alternative approach to Scrum and Agile methodology, where tasks are visually divided into columns. It is used to manage the software development workflow and streamline processes in order to optimize delivery times. Kanban boards are pretty popular among software development teams as they provide better visibility into what needs to be done at any given time.

DevOps Methodology

This is a combination of software development and operations, with the goal of facilitating seamless collaboration between development and operations teams. DevOps puts an emphasis on the automation of processes in order to speed up delivery times. Setting up continuous integration (CI) pipelines allows developers to quickly identify issues, fix them faster and deploy code more efficiently. There is a practice evolving from the DevOps approach, which is known as DevSecOps. While the focus of DevOps is on efficiency, DevSecOps focuses on ensuring security and compliance.

Spiral Model

The Spiral combines the features of both Waterfall and Agile. This model is a systematic approach to managing risks that involves multiple iterations. Rather than focusing on completing one stage at a time, the Spiral model enables software developers to iterate through different stages in parallel as needed. Due to the level of risk associated with each stage, the software development process will continue or halt. This model is particularly helpful for projects that require a high degree of risk management and flexibility in terms of delivery times.

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

Rapid Application Development is an approach that enables teams to deliver software quickly while still adhering to quality standards. This approach focuses on building a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) of the application in order to get customer feedback and then iterate accordingly. This helps developers gain insights into customer needs and allows them to quickly adjust their product accordingly. This approach encourages a more flexible and adaptive approach, which is the reason why it is becoming increasingly popular and widely adopted by most software development projects. By taking advantage of RAD techniques, teams can achieve faster deployment times while still ensuring quality delivery.

Dynamic System Development Methodology

The Dynamic Systems model is an Agile process model that combines the best elements of Waterfall, iterative, and incremental methods. It prioritizes customer satisfaction as one of its primary objectives and ensures timely delivery with iterative processes. This method also places a premium on communication between all stakeholders in order to ensure better collaboration and faster delivery. It is also great for projects that require frequent changes, as it enables the software development team to constantly evaluate their progress and quickly adjust their product according to customer feedback.

Lean Software Development Methodology

As its namesake, a Lean development method is a customer-centric approach to software development projects which concentrates on the importance of delivering value. This method allows teams to pay more attention to customer needs and use their feedback to optimize their process throughout the product development cycle. Additionally, it aims at minimizing waste in order to increase efficiency and streamline processes. By taking advantage of lean principles, development teams can prioritize what matters most and deliver value to their customers in a shorter timeframe.

Prototype Methodology

In this software development approach, a prototype - a working version of the software with basic functionality - is created and tested before the actual development process begins. This allows developers to get an understanding of the software requirements, identify potential issues early on, and adjust their approach accordingly. By using the prototype methodology, developers can quickly assess user feedback and incorporate changes as needed without having to start over from scratch. This helps them deliver high-quality software in a shorter timeframe. Additionally, it helps to reduce risks associated with the development process and improve customer satisfaction.

Extreme Programming

XP, or Extreme Programming, is an agile software development methodology that focuses on code quality, rapid iteration, and continuous feedback. XP employs the concept of pair programming - two developers working together to complete a task - in order to create high-quality code quickly and efficiently. Additionally, this approach emphasizes the importance of testing and documentation throughout the development process in order to secure software quality.

Feature-driven Development

Feature-driven development (FDD) is an approach that is based on Agile principles and focuses on iterative delivery. This approach breaks the software development process into small, manageable chunks. The development team starts by creating a feature list and then goes on to develop the software in small increments.

Joint Application Development

Joint Application Development (JAD) is an approach that involves all stakeholders in designing and developing software. By bringing together end-users, developers, and project managers to discuss ideas and reach a consensus on product features, the JAD methodology helps to foster collaboration that will be beneficial for the entire development process of software projects. It helps the software development team explore different solutions during the early stages of the project, which can help reduce risks and ensure successful delivery.

Rational Unified Process

RUP is a software development process that aims to develop and deliver high-quality products through teamwork and iterative development. RUP uses a series of documented processes, models, and development tools to guide the development of software over its life cycle. The process has four activities: inception, elaboration, construction, and transition. It also includes six workflows: requirements, analysis and design, implementation, test, deployment, and project management. This method is iterative, and it allows teams to plan, build, and test software in short cycles. Additionally, it integrates quality assurance activities into the development process to ensure that the product meets customer requirements.

In brief, we have run through a series of common software development methodologies. It is vital to note that the selection of approaches will depend heavily on the project requirements, team size, skills, timeline, budget, and objectives. Different development teams may find that different methodologies are better suited to their projects. So, the decision on which one is the right software development methodology is now in your hand.

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Introduction to Software Engineering/Process/Methodology

A software development methodology or system development methodology in software engineering is a framework that is used to structure, plan, and control the process of developing an information system.

• 1.1 As a noun
• 1.2 As a verb
• 2.1 Waterfall development
• 2.2 Prototyping
• 2.3 Incremental development
• 2.4 Spiral development
• 2.5 Rapid application development
• 2.6 Other practices
• 3.1 View model
• 3.2 Business process and data modelling
• 3.3 Computer-aided software engineering
• 3.4 Integrated development environment
• 3.5 Modeling language
• 3.6 Programming paradigm
• 3.7 Software framework
• 3.8 Software development process
• 5 References
• 6 External links

History [ edit | edit source ]

The software development methodology framework didn't emerge until the 1960s. According to Elliott (2004) the systems development life cycle (SDLC) can be considered to be the oldest formalized methodology framework for building information systems. The main idea of the SDLC has been "to pursue the development of information systems in a very deliberate, structured and methodical way, requiring each stage of the life cycle from inception of the idea to delivery of the final system, to be carried out in rigidly and sequentially". [1] within the context of the framework being applied. The main target of this methodology framework in the 1960s was "to develop large scale functional business systems in an age of large scale business conglomerates. Information systems activities revolved around heavy data processing and number crunching routines". [1]

As a noun [ edit | edit source ]

As a noun, a software development methodology is a framework that is used to structure, plan, and control the process of developing an information system - this includes the pre-definition of specific deliverables and artifacts that are created and completed by a project team to develop or maintain an application. [2]

A wide variety of such frameworks have evolved over the years, each with its own recognized strengths and weaknesses. One software development methodology framework is not necessarily suitable for use by all projects. Each of the available methodology frameworks are best suited to specific kinds of projects, based on various technical, organizational, project and team considerations. [2]

These software development frameworks are often bound to some kind of organization, which further develops, supports the use, and promotes the methodology framework. The methodology framework is often defined in some kind of formal documentation. Specific software development methodology frameworks (noun) include

• Rational Unified Process (RUP, IBM) since 1998.
• Agile Unified Process (AUP) since 2005 by Scott Ambler

As a verb [ edit | edit source ]

As a verb, the software development methodology is an approach used by organizations and project teams to apply the software development methodology framework (noun). Specific software development methodologies (verb) include:

• Structured programming since 1969
• Cap Gemini SDM, originally from PANDATA, the first English translation was published in 1974. SDM stands for System Development Methodology
• Structured Systems Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) from 1980 onwards
• Information Requirement Analysis/Soft systems methodology
• Object-oriented programming (OOP) has been developed since the early 1960s, and developed as a dominant programming approach during the mid-1990s
• Rapid application development (RAD) since 1991
• Scrum, since the late 1990s
• Team software process developed by Watts Humphrey at the SEI
• Extreme Programming since 1999

Verb approaches [ edit | edit source ]

Every software development methodology framework acts as a basis for applying specific approaches to develop and maintain software. Several software development approaches have been used since the origin of information technology. These are: [2]

• Waterfall: a linear framework
• Prototyping: an iterative framework
• Incremental: a combined linear-iterative framework
• Spiral: a combined linear-iterative framework
• Rapid application development (RAD): an iterative framework
• Extreme Programming

Waterfall development [ edit | edit source ]

The Waterfall model is a sequential development approach, in which development is seen as flowing steadily downwards (like a waterfall) through the phases of requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing (validation), integration, and maintenance. The first formal description of the method is often cited as an article published by Winston W. Royce [3] in 1970 although Royce did not use the term "waterfall" in this article.

The basic principles are: [2]

• Project is divided into sequential phases, with some overlap and splashback acceptable between phases.
• Emphasis is on planning, time schedules, target dates, budgets and implementation of an entire system at one time.
• Tight control is maintained over the life of the project via extensive written documentation, formal reviews, and approval/signoff by the user and information technology management occurring at the end of most phases before beginning the next phase.

Prototyping [ edit | edit source ]

Software prototyping, is the development approach of activities during software development, the creation of prototypes, i.e., incomplete versions of the software program being developed.

• Not a standalone, complete development methodology, but rather an approach to handling selected parts of a larger, more traditional development methodology (i.e. incremental, spiral, or rapid application development (RAD)).
• Attempts to reduce inherent project risk by breaking a project into smaller segments and providing more ease-of-change during the development process.
• User is involved throughout the development process, which increases the likelihood of user acceptance of the final implementation.
• Small-scale mock-ups of the system are developed following an iterative modification process until the prototype evolves to meet the users’ requirements.
• While most prototypes are developed with the expectation that they will be discarded, it is possible in some cases to evolve from prototype to working system.
• A basic understanding of the fundamental business problem is necessary to avoid solving the wrong problem.

Incremental development [ edit | edit source ]

Various methods are acceptable for combining linear and iterative systems development methodologies, with the primary objective of each being to reduce inherent project risk by breaking a project into smaller segments and providing more ease-of-change during the development process.

• A series of mini-Waterfalls are performed, where all phases of the Waterfall are completed for a small part of a system, before proceeding to the next increment, or
• Overall requirements are defined before proceeding to evolutionary, mini-Waterfall development of individual increments of a system, or
• The initial software concept, requirements analysis, and design of architecture and system core are defined via Waterfall, followed by iterative Prototyping, which culminates in installing the final prototype, a working system.

Spiral development [ edit | edit source ]

The spiral model is a software development process combining elements of both design and prototyping-in-stages, in an effort to combine advantages of top-down and bottom-up concepts.

• Focus is on risk assessment and on minimizing project risk by breaking a project into smaller segments and providing more ease-of-change during the development process, as well as providing the opportunity to evaluate risks and weigh consideration of project continuation throughout the life cycle.
• "Each cycle involves a progression through the same sequence of steps, for each part of the product and for each of its levels of elaboration, from an overall concept-of-operation document down to the coding of each individual program." [4]
• Each trip around the spiral traverses four basic quadrants: (1) determine objectives, alternatives, and constraints of the iteration; (2) evaluate alternatives; Identify and resolve risks; (3) develop and verify deliverables from the iteration; and (4) plan the next iteration. [4] [5]
• Begin each cycle with an identification of stakeholders and their win conditions, and end each cycle with review and commitment. [6]

Rapid application development [ edit | edit source ]

Rapid application development (RAD) is a software development methodology, which involves iterative development and the construction of prototypes. Rapid application development is a term originally used to describe a software development process introduced by James Martin in 1991.

• Key objective is for fast development and delivery of a high quality system at a relatively low investment cost.
• Aims to produce high quality systems quickly, primarily via iterative Prototyping (at any stage of development), active user involvement, and computerized development tools. These tools may include Graphical User Interface (GUI) builders, Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tools, Database Management Systems (DBMS), fourth-generation programming languages, code generators, and object-oriented techniques.
• Key emphasis is on fulfilling the business need, while technological or engineering excellence is of lesser importance.
• Project control involves prioritizing development and defining delivery deadlines or “timeboxes”. If the project starts to slip, emphasis is on reducing requirements to fit the timebox, not in increasing the deadline.
• Generally includes joint application design (JAD), where users are intensely involved in system design, via consensus building in either structured workshops, or electronically facilitated interaction.
• Active user involvement is imperative.
• Iteratively produces production software, as opposed to a throwaway prototype.
• Produces documentation necessary to facilitate future development and maintenance.
• Standard systems analysis and design methods can be fitted into this framework.

Other practices [ edit | edit source ]

Other methodology practices include:

• Object-oriented development methodologies, such as Grady Booch's object-oriented design (OOD), also known as object-oriented analysis and design (OOAD). The Booch model includes six diagrams: class, object, state transition, interaction, module, and process. [7]
• Top-down programming: evolved in the 1970s by IBM researcher Harlan Mills (and Niklaus Wirth) in developed structured programming.
• Unified Process (UP) is an iterative software development methodology framework, based on Unified Modeling Language (UML). UP organizes the development of software into four phases, each consisting of one or more executable iterations of the software at that stage of development: inception, elaboration, construction, and guidelines. Many tools and products exist to facilitate UP implementation. One of the more popular versions of UP is the Rational Unified Process (RUP).
• Agile software development refers to a group of software development methodologies based on iterative development, where requirements and solutions evolve via collaboration between self-organizing cross-functional teams. The term was coined in the year 2001 when the Agile Manifesto was formulated.
• Integrated software development refers to a deliverable based software development framework using the three primary IT (project management, software development, software testing) life cycles that can be leveraged using multiple (iterative, waterfall, spiral, agile) software development approaches, where requirements and solutions evolve via collaboration between self-organizing cross-functional teams.

Software Development Process Evolves Various Processings Hence, software development is not an easy task, it evolves various processings. According to IBM Research: “Software development refers to a set of computer science activities dedicated to the process.

Creating Designing Deploying Supporting Software

Subtopics [ edit | edit source ]

View model [ edit | edit source ].

A view model is framework which provides the viewpoints on the system and its environment, to be used in the software development process. It is a graphical representation of the underlying semantics of a view.

The purpose of viewpoints and views is to enable human engineers to comprehend very complex systems, and to organize the elements of the problem and the solution around domains of expertise. In the engineering of physically intensive systems, viewpoints often correspond to capabilities and responsibilities within the engineering organization. [8]

Most complex system specifications are so extensive that no one individual can fully comprehend all aspects of the specifications. Furthermore, we all have different interests in a given system and different reasons for examining the system's specifications. A business executive will ask different questions of a system make-up than would a system implementer. The concept of viewpoints framework, therefore, is to provide separate viewpoints into the specification of a given complex system. These viewpoints each satisfy an audience with interest in some set of aspects of the system. Associated with each viewpoint is a viewpoint language that optimizes the vocabulary and presentation for the audience of that viewpoint.

Business process and data modelling [ edit | edit source ]

Graphical representation of the current state of information provides a very effective means for presenting information to both users and system developers.

• A business model illustrates the functions associated with the business process being modeled and the organizations that perform these functions. By depicting activities and information flows, a foundation is created to visualize, define, understand, and validate the nature of a process.
• A data model provides the details of information to be stored, and is of primary use when the final product is the generation of computer software code for an application or the preparation of a functional specification to aid a computer software make-or-buy decision. See the figure on the right for an example of the interaction between business process and data models. [9]

Usually, a model is created after conducting an interview, referred to as business analysis. The interview consists of a facilitator asking a series of questions designed to extract required information that describes a process. The interviewer is called a facilitator to emphasize that it is the participants who provide the information. The facilitator should have some knowledge of the process of interest, but this is not as important as having a structured methodology by which the questions are asked of the process expert. The methodology is important because usually a team of facilitators is collecting information across the facility and the results of the information from all the interviewers must fit together once completed. [9]

The models are developed as defining either the current state of the process, in which case the final product is called the "as-is" snapshot model, or a collection of ideas of what the process should contain, resulting in a "what-can-be" model. Generation of process and data models can be used to determine if the existing processes and information systems are sound and only need minor modifications or enhancements, or if re-engineering is required as a corrective action. The creation of business models is more than a way to view or automate your information process. Analysis can be used to fundamentally reshape the way your business or organization conducts its operations. [9]

Computer-aided software engineering [ edit | edit source ]

Computer-aided software engineering (CASE), in the field software engineering is the scientific application of a set of tools and methods to a software which results in high-quality, defect-free, and maintainable software products. [10] It also refers to methods for the development of information systems together with automated tools that can be used in the software development process. [11] The term "computer-aided software engineering" (CASE) can refer to the software used for the automated development of systems software, i.e., computer code. The CASE functions include analysis, design, and programming. CASE tools automate methods for designing, documenting, and producing structured computer code in the desired programming language. [12]

Two key ideas of Computer-aided Software System Engineering (CASE) are: [13]

• Foster computer assistance in software development and or software maintenance processes, and
• An engineering approach to software development and or maintenance.

Typical CASE tools exist for configuration management, data modeling, model transformation, refactoring, source code generation, and Unified Modeling Language.

Integrated development environment [ edit | edit source ]

An integrated development environment (IDE) also known as integrated design environment or integrated debugging environment is a software application that provides comprehensive facilities to computer programmers for software development. An IDE normally consists of a:

• source code editor,
• compiler and/or interpreter,
• build automation tools, and
• debugger (usually).

IDEs are designed to maximize programmer productivity by providing tight-knit components with similar user interfaces. Typically an IDE is dedicated to a specific programming language, so as to provide a feature set which most closely matches the programming paradigms of the language.

Modeling language [ edit | edit source ]

A modeling language is any artificial language that can be used to express information or knowledge or systems in a structure that is defined by a consistent set of rules. The rules are used for interpretation of the meaning of components in the structure. A modeling language can be graphical or textual. [14] Graphical modeling languages use a diagram techniques with named symbols that represent concepts and lines that connect the symbols and that represent relationships and various other graphical annotation to represent constraints. Textual modeling languages typically use standardised keywords accompanied by parameters to make computer-interpretable expressions.

Example of graphical modelling languages in the field of software engineering are:

• Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN, and the XML form BPML) is an example of a process modeling language.
• EXPRESS and EXPRESS-G (ISO 10303-11) is an international standard general-purpose data modeling language.
• Extended Enterprise Modeling Language (EEML) is commonly used for business process modeling across layers.
• Flowchart is a schematic representation of an algorithm or a stepwise process,
• Fundamental Modeling Concepts (FMC) modeling language for software-intensive systems.
• IDEF is a family of modeling languages, the most notable of which include IDEF0 for functional modeling, IDEF1X for information modeling, and IDEF5 for modeling ontologies.
• LePUS3 is an object-oriented visual Design Description Language and a formal specification language that is suitable primarily for modelling large object-oriented (Java, C++ , C# ) programs and design patterns.
• Specification and Description Language(SDL) is a specification language targeted at the unambiguous specification and description of the behaviour of reactive and distributed systems.
• Unified Modeling Language (UML) is a general-purpose modeling language that is an industry standard for specifying software-intensive systems. UML 2.0, the current version, supports thirteen different diagram techniques, and has widespread tool support.

Not all modeling languages are executable, and for those that are, using them doesn't necessarily mean that programmers are no longer needed. On the contrary, executable modeling languages are intended to amplify the productivity of skilled programmers, so that they can address more difficult problems, such as parallel computing and distributed systems.

Programming paradigm [ edit | edit source ]

A programming paradigm is a fundamental style of computer programming, in contrast to a software engineering methodology, which is a style of solving specific software engineering problems. Paradigms differ in the concepts and abstractions used to represent the elements of a program (such as objects, functions, variables, constraints...) and the steps that compose a computation (assignation, evaluation, continuations, data flows...).

A programming language can support multiple paradigms. For example programs written in C++ or Object Pascal can be purely procedural, or purely object-oriented, or contain elements of both paradigms. Software designers and programmers decide how to use those paradigm elements. In object-oriented programming, programmers can think of a program as a collection of interacting objects, while in functional programming a program can be thought of as a sequence of stateless function evaluations. When programming computers or systems with many processors, process-oriented programming allows programmers to think about applications as sets of concurrent processes acting upon logically shared data structures.

Just as different groups in software engineering advocate different methodologies , different programming languages advocate different programming paradigms . Some languages are designed to support one paradigm (Smalltalk supports object-oriented programming, Haskell supports functional programming), while other programming languages support multiple paradigms (such as Object Pascal, C++, C#, Visual Basic, Common Lisp, Scheme, Python, Ruby, and Oz).

Many programming paradigms are as well known for what methods they forbid as for what they enable. For instance, pure functional programming forbids using side-effects; structured programming forbids using goto statements. Partly for this reason, new paradigms are often regarded as doctrinaire or overly rigid by those accustomed to earlier styles. [ citation needed ] Avoiding certain methods can make it easier to prove theorems about a program's correctness, or simply to understand its behavior.

Software framework [ edit | edit source ]

A software framework is a re-usable design for a software system or subsystem. A software framework may include support programs, code libraries, a scripting language, or other software to help develop and glue together the different components of a software project. Various parts of the framework may be exposed via an API.

Software development process [ edit | edit source ]

A software development process is a framework imposed on the development of a software product. Synonyms include software life cycle and software process . There are several models for such processes, each describing approaches to a variety of tasks or activities that take place during the process.

A largely growing body of software development organizations implement process methodologies. Many of them are in the defense industry, which in the U.S. requires a rating based on 'process models' to obtain contracts. The international standard describing the method to select, implement and monitor the life cycle for software is ISO 12207.

A decades-long goal has been to find repeatable, predictable processes that improve productivity and quality. Some try to systematize or formalize the seemingly unruly task of writing software. Others apply project management methods to writing software. Without project management, software projects can easily be delivered late or over budget. With large numbers of software projects not meeting their expectations in terms of functionality, cost, or delivery schedule, effective project management appears to be lacking.

See also [ edit | edit source ]

• List of software engineering topics
• List of software development philosophies
• Domain-specific modeling
• Lightweight methodology
• Object modeling language
• Structured programming
• Integrated IT Methodology

References [ edit | edit source ]

• ↑ a b Geoffrey Elliott (2004) Global Business Information Technology: an integrated systems approach . Pearson Education. p.87.
• ↑ a b c d e f g h Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Office of Information Service (2008). Selecting a development approach . Webarticle. United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Revalidated: March 27, 2008. Retrieved 15 July 2015.
• ↑ Wasserfallmodell > Entstehungskontext , Markus Rerych, Institut für Gestaltungs- und Wirkungsforschung, TU-Wien. Accessed on line November 28, 2007.
• ↑ a b Barry Boehm (1996., "A Spiral Model of Software Development and Enhancement ". In: ACM SIGSOFT Software Engineering Notes (ACM) 11(4):14-24, August 1986
• ↑ Richard H. Thayer, Barry W. Boehm (1986). Tutorial: software engineering project management . Computer Society Press of the IEEE. p.130
• ↑ Barry W. Boehm (2000). Software cost estimation with Cocomo II: Volume 1 .
• ↑ Georges Gauthier Merx & Ronald J. Norman (2006). Unified Software Engineering with Java . p.201.
• ↑ Edward J. Barkmeyer ea (2003). Concepts for Automating Systems Integration NIST 2003.
• ↑ a b c d Paul R. Smith & Richard Sarfaty (1993). Creating a strategic plan for configuration management using Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tools. Paper For 1993 National DOE/Contractors and Facilities CAD/CAE User's Group.
• ↑ Kuhn, D.L (1989). "Selecting and effectively using a computer aided software engineering tool". Annual Westinghouse computer symposium; 6-7 Nov 1989; Pittsburgh, PA (USA); DOE Project.
• ↑ P. Loucopoulos and V. Karakostas (1995). System Requirements Engineering . McGraw-Hill.
• ↑ CASE definition In: Telecom Glossary 2000 . Retrieved 26 Oct 2008.
• ↑ K. Robinson (1992). Putting the Software Engineering into CASE . New York : John Wiley and Sons Inc.
• ↑ Xiao He (2007). "A metamodel for the notation of graphical modeling languages". In: Computer Software and Applications Conference, 2007. COMPSAC 2007 - Vol. 1. 31st Annual International , Volume 1, Issue , 24–27 July 2007, pp 219-224.

External links [ edit | edit source ]

• Selecting a development approach at cms.gov.
• Software Methodologies Book Reviews An extensive set of book reviews related to software methodologies and processes

• Book:Introduction to Software Engineering

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Table of Contents

What is software development methodology, top software development methodologies, challenges and risks in implementing software development methodologies, how to select the appropriate software methodology for my project, choose the right software development program for you, software development methodologies: everything you need to know.

Software engineering methodologies are important for creating better software projects. It helps developers plan, produce, and test software. These methods simplify tasks, improve collaboration, and achieve timely and budget-friendly outcomes. Knowing various methods can help you in the technology field.

This article is about ways to make software and how they can help you. It will help you choose the best method fulfilling your needs.

Software development methodology is defined as a framework for developing information systems, focusing on planning and organization. It benefits both teams and customers by improving efficiency and adaptability to changes.

In the past years, people have introduced many ways to develop software. Here we will discuss the top 4 ways, among several, to develop software.

Agile Development Methodology

Agile methodology prioritizes user satisfaction and communication, using short sprints and frequent feedback to make software changes.

Usage: Agile is best for projects with changing requirements, especially in new areas of software development. It lets developers include new ideas based on market needs, assuming they are independent and prefer to work fast.

DevOps Deployment Methodology

DevOps is a method that combines development and operations teams to promote collaboration and improve efficiency in software development.

Usage: This method works best when you want to work with big development and IT teams to automate testing and delivery of complete processes quickly.

Waterfall Development Method

The waterfall methodology is a sequential approach used in some projects today due to its simplicity. It requires completing each stage before moving on, which makes it inflexible for projects with changing requirements.

Usage: Use waterfall for projects with a clear scope. It is not good for projects with many unknowns. The waterfall is considered best for projects with predictable outcomes and inexperienced developers.

Rapid Application Development

The Rapid Application Development (RAD) model, introduced in 1991, prioritizes speed and quality. It consists of defining requirements, creating prototypes, testing, and implementing. RAD focuses on building and testing prototypes with the customer through multiple iterations, reducing product risk. Development tools streamline the process.

Usage: Rapid Application Development (RAD) relies on a skilled team of developers and engaged customers for successful projects. Effective communication is essential, and investing in RAD tools can speed up development.

1. Resistance to Change

Introducing new software development methodologies can face resistance from the team. People might be used to their old ways and resist adapting to new approaches.

2. Complexity

Some methodologies can be complex, especially for those new to them. It might take time for the team to fully grasp and implement these methods.

3. Customization

Not all methodologies fit all projects. Teams might need to customize them to suit their project's specific needs, which can be a challenge.

4. Training

Learning new software development methods takes time. Teams might need training to understand and use these methodologies effectively.

5. Team Coordination

Different methodologies require different ways of working. Coordinating between team members using diverse software development approaches  can be challenging.

6. Changing Requirements

Sometimes project requirements change midway. Adapting methodologies to these changes can be complex.

7. Resource Allocation

Certain methodologies might need specific resources. Allocating these resources correctly can pose a challenge.

8. Time Constraints

Implementing new methodologies can take time. Balancing this implementation with project timelines can be tough.

9. Risk Management

While methodologies aim to minimize risks, their implementation itself can introduce new risks that need careful handling.

10. Overhead

Some methodologies might introduce additional steps that could feel like unnecessary work, impacting efficiency.

11. Cultural Shift

Moving to new software development methodologies can sometimes require a cultural shift in how the team approaches their work.

12. Project Size

Large projects might require more complex methodologies, while simpler ones might not need such intricacies.

13. Communication

Effective communication is vital. Some methodologies might require more communication between team members than others.

14. Tools and Technology

New methodologies might need specific tools or technology that the team needs to learn and incorporate.

Implementing new methodologies might need budget allocation for training, tools, and other resources.

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The right software development methodology is important for project success. Consider factors and ask questions to choose the best one.

• Evaluating Project Requirement and Scope: Is it a large-scale enterprise application development or a smaller web development project? This will help determine if an agile or waterfall methodology is more suitable.
• Assessing Team’s Expertise and Experience: Are they familiar with specific methodologies like Scrum or Kanban? Their competency level in different methodologies can influence your decision.
• Considering Project Timeline and Client Expectations: Does the client require continuous product updates throughout development? In such cases, an agile approach would be preferable.
• Considering Flexibility and Adaptability: Is it essential to accommodate changing requirements or are they well-defined from the start? Agile methodologies excel in managing evolving requirements effectively.
• Analyzing Resources: Do you have sufficient manpower to implement a complex methodology like RUP? Lack of resources may lead you to opt for simpler approaches like Extreme Programming (XP).
• Reviewing Previous Successful Projects: Was there a particular method that worked well in those situations? Does it match with the current project? If yes, then select that method.

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Program Name Full Stack Java Developer Career Bootcamp Automation Testing Masters Program Post Graduate Program in Full Stack Web Development Geo IN All Non-US University Simplilearn Simplilearn Caltech Course Duration 11 Months 11 Months 9 Months Coding Experience Required Basic Knowledge Basic Knowledge Basic Knowledge Skills You Will Learn 15+ Skills Including Core Java, SQL, AWS, ReactJS, etc. Java, AWS, API Testing, TDD, etc. Java, DevOps, AWS, HTML5, CSS3, etc. Additional Benefits Interview Preparation Exclusive Job Portal 200+ Hiring Partners Structured Guidance Learn From Experts Hands-on Training Caltech CTME Circle Membership Learn 30+ Tools and Skills 25 CEUs from Caltech CTME Cost $$ $$ $$$ Explore Program Explore Program Explore Program

Software development methodologies are crucial for successful projects, enabling teams to collaborate, allocate resources effectively, and deliver quality products on schedule. Customizing the methodology to align with team objectives is vital, and understanding the pros and cons of various approaches leads to better outcomes. It is essential to explore different methodologies and select the most suitable one for future projects to reap the benefits.

If you are looking to enhance your software development skills further, we highly recommend you to check Simplilearn’s Post Graduate Program in Full Stack Web Development . This program, in collaboration with Caltech CTME, can help you gain the right software development experience and make you job-ready in no time.

If you have any questions or queries, feel free to post them in the comments section below. Our team will get back to you at the earliest.

1. What are the most popular software development methodologies? 

The most popular software development methodologies are Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, and RAD.

2. Can methodologies be mixed or customized? 

Absolutely! Software development methodologies are not fixed. You can definitely mix and match different methodologies to create a customized approach that suits your project's specific needs.

3. How do methodologies contribute to the success of a software project?

Methodologies help manage projects by providing a plan for using resources efficiently, delivering on time, and communicating effectively.

4. Is SDLC Agile or waterfall?

Both Agile and waterfall methodologies can be used within the SDLC, but traditionally, waterfall has been more closely associated with its linear approach, while Agile focuses on iterative development.

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What is agile methodology? Modern software development explained

Everyone talks about agile development, but how does it really work learn how teams use scrum, kanban, and other agile methodologies to deliver better software..

Contributor, InfoWorld |

What is agile software development methodology

Roles in agile methodology, what are scrum and kanban, technical best practices for agile organizations.

It’s hard to believe that the agile software development methodology officially turned 20 years old last year. What once was an outlying practice for startups collaborating in colocated spaces with stickies and whiteboards is now a sophisticated, scalable, and widely used set of agile software development processes and tools.

There’s a rich history behind agile software development and why organizations use agile methods such as scrum and kanban to modernize applications, improve customer experience, and implement digital transformations . There’s also a tremendous body of knowledge around these methodologies and their intersections with design thinking, product management, and devops . Fewer people today ask, “What is agile?” More are seeking guidance for how to align their teams on agile best practices.

This article is a primer on agile methodologies, starting with people, teams, processes, and tools. You’ll also learn how agile connects to devops, and about best practices that help organizations cultivate an agile culture and deliver better software.

An agile software development process always starts by defining the users for a particular product and documenting a vision statement for the scope of problems, opportunities, and values to be addressed. The product owner captures this vision and works with a multidisciplinary team (or teams) to deliver on it. Several roles are involved in an agile development process.

An agile process always begins with the user or customer in mind. Today, we often define user personas to illustrate different workflow roles or types of customer needs and behaviors.

Product owner

The product owner is tasked to be the voice of the customer, including any internal stakeholders. This person distills insights, ideas, and feedback to create a product vision. Product visions are often short and straightforward, but they nonetheless paint a picture of who the customer or user is, what values are being addressed, and a strategy for addressing them. I imagine Google’s original vision looked something like, “Let’s make it easy for anyone with internet access to find relevant websites and webpages with a simple, keyword-driven interface and an algorithm that ranks reputable sources higher in the search results.”

Whatever the vision, the product owner is responsible for defining it and then working with the development team to make it real.

To work with the development team, the product owner breaks down the product vision into a series of user stories . Each user story should identify the target users, their challenges, why the solution is needed, and what constraints and acceptance criteria define the solution. The product owner prioritizes these user stories and reviews them with the team to ensure they have a shared understanding of what is being asked of them.

Software development team

Teams should be multidisciplinary and include a diverse group with the skills and backgrounds to get the job done. In addition to developers, agile development teams should include quality assurance automation engineers, data engineers, user experience (UX) designers, and other roles depending on the type of software project.

Agile focuses teams on delivering working software, so they must complete end-to-end functioning applications, integrations, and other deliverables that impact users—not just the technical components. Team members must align on what they are building, who is doing what, and how the software will be developed .

Agile teams often have other roles assigned, including the following:

• Tech or team leads partner with the product owner on architecture, non-functional acceptance criteria, sequencing, dependencies, and other technology and security considerations. Tech leads have broad responsibilities that might include estimating stories and planning implementation details with the team.
• Scrum masters often coach new teams on agile processes, responsibilities, and tools. Scrum master responsibilities can include resolving blocks that impede progress, reviewing approaches to improve the agile team’s velocity , and grooming backlogs .
• Business analysts partner with the product owner. The analysts’ responsibilities often include creating wireframes, documenting user stories, and reviewing test results. Business analysts are especially helpful when software development teams are developing microservices and other technical products, and where the business analyst has more software development knowledge than the product owner.

It is up to organizational leaders to decide how to staff agile teams and how big to make them. Many follow Jeff Bezos’s best practice of constructing two pizza-size agile teams to maximize the collaboration between teammates.

Once a product vision and team (or teams) adopt agile principles, starting with the ones identified in the agile manifesto , the organization must select a process methodology. Scrum and kanban are the primary agile processes.

Some organizations start with kanban because it’s relatively easy to explain and implement. Kanban works as a fan-in and fan-out process where the team pulls user stories from an intake board and funnels them through a workflow until they are marked done.

But many organizations implement scrum , which organizes the work in cadences called sprints , usually lasting one or two weeks. The product owner writes the requirements as user stories, then prioritizes them in a backlog based on their business value. The team reviews the backlog and commits to the top user stories they can complete during the sprint.

Scrum includes several standard meetings (sometimes called scrum ceremonies or scrum rituals ) to help teams commit to sprint priorities, complete the work during the sprint, and end each sprint successfully. These meetings usually include a few common elements:

• Sprint planning is where the product owner shares priorities, and the team decides how much work it can complete during the sprint. 
• Daily standup meetings help teams discuss the status of user stories; teammates share their daily goals, and anyone can escalate blocks that impede the team’s progress.
• Sprint reviews are demo meetings at the end of the sprint, where the functionality is shown to the product owner to gain acceptance on completed work.
• Retrospective meetings are where the team discusses what went well and what needs improvement in their agile and software development processes.

It should be noted that these practices are adaptable to agile hybrid work models .

Scrum improves a team’s performance by empowering the team to commit to an achievable amount of work rather than having a product, program, or project manager specify the expected timeline and scope. The user story forms a microcontract that separates business need, the acceptance criteria (or what agile teams sometimes call the definition of done ), and then enables teams to self-organize on how to implement. Sprint reviews are one type of feedback loop , and product owners are encouraged to realign priorities and redefine requirements before each sprint. Sprint retrospectives help the team improve collaboration and initiate process improvements.

Scrum forms the basic process for teams collaborating, planning, and delivering, but it doesn’t speak to technical best practices, organizational standards, or defining and driving agile cultures.

Today, many technical best practices include defining the software development lifecycle (SDLC) and implementing devops processes. The SDLC provides guidelines on writing code, managing software assets, and developing technical standards . Devops automations like CI/CD , Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and continuous testing enable a more reliable path to production. Other practices, including shift-left security practices , observable microservices , feature flagging , canary releases , and AIOps , provide a more flexible and reliable delivery model.

The combination of empowering self-organizing teams, agile methodologies, devops automations, and modernizing to cloud architectures helps technology organizations evolve their culture. Longer development cycles are replaced by continuous delivery models that enable releasing features and improvements faster. Automations address many gaps between developers seeking autonomy and speed with operations responsibilities around performance, reliability, and security. Combining these practices helps agile teams make smarter architecture decisions, drive experimentation, become more data driven, and correct mistakes quickly.

Other practices like integrating design thinking with scrum , implementing value streams , developing product management practices , and implementing continuous planning help agile teams collaborate with customers, end-users, and business stakeholders. 

Agile teams typically deploy tools like Jira Software, Azure DevOps, and Digital.ai to collaborate on agile backlogs and kanban boards. These tools help agile teams prioritize work, capture requirements, complete user stories, review burndown reports , and automate workflows using version control, CI/CD, and other tools. 

Conceptual frameworks and guides such as SAFe, Enterprise Scrum, LeSS (Large-Scale Scrum), the Spotify Model, and StarCIO Agile can help drive agile principles, standards, and practices across many collaborating teams.

Most coaches recommend starting agile practices with well-defined business objectives, a few selected teams, and limited, optimally chosen tools. The challenge for organization leaders is to find the right balance of diverse teams, self-organization principles, standards, tools, and integrations that enable their organizations to build, extend, scale, and maintain technology capabilities.

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Isaac Sacolick is president of StarCIO and the author of the Amazon bestseller Driving Digital: The Leader’s Guide to Business Transformation through Technology and Digital Trailblazer: Essential Lessons to Jumpstart Transformation and Accelerate Your Technology Leadership . He covers agile planning , devops, data science, product management, and other digital transformation best practices. Sacolick is a recognized top social CIO and digital transformation influencer. He has published more than 900 articles at InfoWorld.com , CIO.com , his blog Social, Agile, and Transformation , and other sites.

Copyright © 2024 IDG Communications, Inc.

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What is a software development methodology 8 examples and how to choose one .

Are you searching for how to improve and add structure to your software development workflow? An excellent first step is selecting the right software development methodology for your project. However, the biggest problem when discussing software development methodologies is variety. Thankfully, here you now have an extensive, explanatory guide for some of the most efficient and popular software development methodologies with this article.

Before we can choose the best one, we need to know what a software development methodology is. But even before that, we need to address perhaps the biggest deceit about software development methodologies – one size fits all.

If there is anything sure about software development methodologies, it’s that there’s no certainty of outcome. No one software development approach will result in a perfect product every single time. And this is not because of inadequacies on the side of your software development team.

It’s just that different software development methodologies function exclusively well for a specific software development project.

After finishing this article, you will have learned all about this and will be able to make an informed choice on the approach that fits your project requirements best.

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What Is a Software Development Methodology?

Software development methodology, or in software engineering, system development methodology, refers to a process or series of procedures used to structure, organize and control the whole development process. 

You can also use these methodologies with No Code tools to make your development around five times faster. Read our article about What is No Code to find out more!

It has less to do with programming and more to do with planning for an efficient software development life cycle.

Software Development Life Cycle

The software process or software life cycle are close synonyms. And the models and methods that describe approaches to tasks throughout a software process or life cycle are what we call software development methodologies.

What Are the Types of Software Development Methodologies?

All methodologies have their strengths and weaknesses. Here, we will look at informative details about each method, followed by their respective strong points and pitfalls.

Waterfall Development Methodology

The waterfall methodology is quite illustrious when it comes to the traditional software development methods. Nevertheless, it is still relevant in many modern software development projects.

As the name implies, the workflow only goes in one direction in the Waterfall development method. That is, the Waterfall model is rigid in its approach. And should a software project using the Waterfall methodology require changes, the Waterfall model demands a complete restart.

It involves dividing development into phases, arranged in sequential order. The development team must complete each stage before moving to the next. That makes it non-ideal for software projects with fast-changing requirements.

The waterfall development method functions with the following basic principles or phases: 

1. Requirements

This is the conceptualization phase, where developers define the problem the software project is aiming to fix. They also describe the initial software concept and expectations for the project in this stage.

2. System design

Here, developers determine the software architecture and system core.

3. Implementation

The team splits up to develop the software in separate units. There is also testing of each isolated section for functionality.

4. Integration and Testing

The team combines all the output of all the separate units. And they test and fine-tune the integrated system for optimal functionality.

5. Deployment

Software is ready for customer use.

6. Maintenance

Developers troubleshoot or get feedback from clients during use and repair such issues as they come. 

• The waterfall approach is particularly great for newbie developers because of its linearity. 
• Using the waterfall model to develop software saves time since all phases are clearly defined.
• The emphasis of Waterfall systems is on planning, time schedules, target dates, budgets, and perpetuation of an entire system at one time. 
• Suited for software projects with spelled-out outcomes and clearly-defined scope.
• Since there is no client feedback in the initial stages, developers are more likely to stray off product requirements.
• Testing is at the end of the software development process, so it would be harder to fix compounded errors.
• Unsuitable for complex projects and rapidly-changing needs.

Agile Development Methodology

Perhaps the most popular modern software development methodology is the agile software development methodology [1] . In a word, Agile is adaptive . How so? The agile methodology came as a relief from highly inflexible and structured methodologies like Waterfall.

The emphasis of an Agile software development methodology is communication between individuals. That is, the customers, developers, and users instead of focusing on the technical tools and rigid procedures or documentation.

Agile encourages developers to engage in iterative and incremental development. Teams divide tasks for developing software in short sprints of about a week to one month. Each iteration has a defined goal to derive a prioritized testable output.

Agile development methodology calls for collaboration and cross-functional teamwork. And teams applying it must show commitment to tight feedback cycles and mini-increments in functionality.

Agile answers what the development process should look like, but it does not specify any specified techniques for building software. That is why many professionals don’t exactly consider Agile as a methodology. More so, it is a software development methodology framework.

It comprises the principles on which Agile software development methodologies like scrum, crystal, extreme programming (XP), and feature-driven development (FDD) build.

• It helps in minimizing project risk for defects due to continuous learning and iterative testing practices and fine-tuning
• Another word that can describe the concept of an Agile framework is people . Agile systems emphasize transparency between team members. That includes internal feedback [2] from different departments and clients. 
• It is more preventive than reactive. Agile software systems focus more on mitigating risks than fixing bugs. 
• The intent of minimizing risks means there’s much less need for security specialists. 
• Sometimes, the team may stray off track because of changing requests of customers.
• Because Agile focuses on working software, documentation is secondary.
• There is hardly any place for beginner programmers. Only experienced and highly skilled developers can work with a non-structured approach to the development process.

Lean Development Methodology

This Toyota-inspired framework came about from the principles of lean manufacturing. It gets its basic principles from the Lean Toyota Production System, which was majorly a method to eliminate wastage in manufacturing effectively.

At its core, lean development combines linear and iterative systems development methodologies. And while Agile describes some of the best practices for developing a software program, it does not include instructions for their application. 

Moreover, it does not explain how these practices can scale beyond software development projects. Lean fills in for those drawbacks.

The lean development methodology entails applying the following principles in various projects and industries, including optimizing software development processes. 

• It is the most strategically focused of all the agile software development methodology frameworks.
• Lean development is best for low-cost projects.
• The elimination of unnecessary tasks and activities means optimal efficiency and saved time.
• Lean is scalable and adaptable to different facets and industries. Health and human services sectors even use lean principles to improve efficiency and reduce costs. 
• Using lean requires extensive documentation.
• It is not suitable for less-skilled developers.

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

IBM first used rapid application development (RAD) to describe a software development process introduced in 1991. 

Rapid application development methodology is one of the best software development frameworks for building a high quality system with low investment cost. And more so, it makes this achievable in unstable markets [3] and in relatively less time.

That is primarily due to Iterative Prototyping, active user feedback, and computerized development tools (such as Object Oriented programming techniques, Database Management Systems, Graphical User Interface builders, Computer-aided Software System Engineering (CASE) tools, etc.)

Rapid application development is comprised of four stages;

1. Requirements Planning

This is the project specification and requirement definition phase.

2. User Design

There is iterative communication between user and developer throughout the development process. Here, the feedback, prototype development, and testing procedures cyclically continue until a satisfactory level of refinement.

3. Construction

Developers deploy the final software based on the prototypes developed in the former phase.

This final phase includes data conversion, exhaustive product testing, and user training.

• Since clients are directly involved in the software development process, it is more likely they favor the final product. 
• Rapid application development method helps to reduce inherent project risk by cascading tasks and with the ease of making changes.
• Perfect for small and medium software applications with time constraints.
• In comparison with prototyping, it iteratively produces production software.
• Maintenance is easier since it uses a fair level of documentation to facilitate future development.
• The process is mainly dependent on if customers are active.
• Developers must be highly skilled and experienced.

Notable Mentions

Prototype model.

Firstly, many professionals don’t consider prototyping a complete development methodology by itself. It is more of one of the software development approaches that encourage certain features in the context of a complete methodology (for example, RAD and Spiral). 

The emphasis here is on building prototypes and iteratively making increments until the desired final product.

Dynamic Systems Model

This iterative approach derives the majority of its principles from the RAD framework. It is a refined methodology that prioritizes business needs over technological or engineering excellence. It also features extensive written documentation, which is lacking in most Agile development frameworks. 

Rational Unified Process (RUP)

This is an agile-based methodology that sections software development into four stages – Inception, Elaboration, Construction, and Transition. In each of these phases, developers may apply the following engineering disciplines with varying levels of emphasis. 

They include; Business Modeling, Analysis and design, Implementation, Testing, and Deployment.

Extreme Programming (XP)

Developers typically use this agile software development model in low cost requirement projects. The emphasis of extreme programming is on flexibility of the process models.

Which Software Development Methodology Should I Use?

If none of the above works for you, you may want to learn about other software development methodologies such as DevOps, Scrum, Feature-Driven Development, and Spiral. At the end of the day, what you need most is a basic understanding of the software project or business problem. 

Once you have that outlined, choosing a methodology (or a combination of elements from different methodologies) just depends on what your priorities – budget, speed, customer-oriented software – are.

Be sure to look into No Code tools to optimise your software development process even more and make it up to 10 times faster.

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• ^ Agile. 11th Stage of Agile Report . Agile.
• ^ Ashley Cheng. Your ultimate guide to customer feedback: the revenue driver for 84% of digital companies. . usersnap.
• ^ Scott Stiner. Rapid Application Development (RAD): A Smart, Quick And Valuable Process For Software Developers . Forbes.

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The Ultimate Guide to Software Development Methodologies

May 27, 2023 - 7 min read

Software development is a complex process that involves various phases, ranging from planning and design to implementation and testing. In this article, we’ll explore key software development methodologies, their benefits, drawbacks, and when they are ideal to use.

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Understanding software development methodologies

Software development methodologies are structured approaches to managing and creating software projects. These methods provide a set of guidelines and techniques for all phases of the software development life cycle (SDLC). They are intended to improve the overall quality, efficiency, and productivity of the software development project .

There are several software development methodologies available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular methodologies include Agile, Waterfall, Scrum , and DevOps. Each methodology has its unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of projects.

The importance of choosing the right methodology

Selecting the right methodology for a software development project is a crucial decision that can have a significant impact on its success. Failing to choose the right approach can lead to cost overruns, missed deadlines, and poor-quality software.

It’s essential to consider the project's size, complexity, and scope, as well as the team's skills and experience, budget, and timeline. 

Key factors to consider when selecting a methodology

Considers these factors when selecting a software development methodology: 

• Project size, complexity, and scope: For smaller projects with well-defined requirements, a Waterfall methodology may be suitable. However, for larger and more complex projects, Agile or Scrum methodologies may be a better fit.
• Team skill set and experience: If the team has experience working with a particular methodology, it may be more efficient to continue using it. However, if the team is not familiar with any particular methodology, it may be beneficial to choose one that is easier to learn and implement.
• Project budget and timeline: Some methodologies may be more expensive than others, and some may take longer to implement. Choose a methodology that fits within the project's budget and timeline while still meeting its needs and requirements.

Waterfall methodology

The Waterfall Model, also known as the traditional approach, is a linear and sequential approach to software development. In this model, each phase of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) must be completed before proceeding to the next phase. These phases are requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance. 

Overview and history of Waterfall

First introduced in 1970 by Winston W. Royce in his paper titled "Managing the Development of Large Software Systems," the name "waterfall" originates from the software development process's sequential flow, where the output of each phase becomes the input for the next. This approach gained popularity in the early days of software development due to its ease of use and simplicity. 

Initially, this model was used in projects where the requirements were well-defined and the technology was stable. The model's sequential nature made it easy to manage and understand the project's progress. However, as software development evolved, the limitations of the Waterfall Model became apparent.

Pros and cons of Waterfall

The Waterfall model's key advantages include its simplicity, predictability, and fixed project scope and budget. It’s easy to understand and manage project resources, especially ideal for large, complex projects. 

However, this model's inflexibility to changes, lack of adaptive approach, long development cycles, and difficulty identifying and addressing mistakes earlier during the process are significant drawbacks. The sequential nature of the model makes it difficult to make changes once a phase is completed. This can lead to delays and increased costs if changes are required later in the project.

When to use Waterfall methodology

The Waterfall methodology is ideal for well-defined projects with clear, predictable outcomes. It works best when all the project requirements are understood and don’t fluctuate, and there’s no technological ambiguity. The process is also suitable for projects with fixed budgets and timelines.

Agile methodology

Overview and history of agile.

Emerging in the early 2000s as a response to some of the challenges of the Waterfall model, Agile methodology is based on the Agile Manifesto , emphasizing delivering working software, welcoming changes, frequent feedback, and close collaboration between the development team and the customer. It is a flexible, iterative, and incremental approach to software development, emphasizing customer satisfaction, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Pros and cons of Agile

The flexibility of the Agile methodology allows for changes to be made throughout the development process, ensuring that the final product meets the needs of the customer. The adaptability to changes is also a significant advantage, as it allows for the project to evolve over time, resulting in a better end product.

Another key advantage is the faster feedback cycles. This translates into a more iterative approach to development, with regular feedback from the customer and the team, so that the project is on track and meets the desired outcomes. In addition, it allows for any issues to be identified and addressed quickly, reducing the risk of delays or problems later in the development process.

However, there are also some significant drawbacks to Agile methodology. Planning can be challenging, as the iterative nature of the methodology means that it can be difficult to predict exactly when the project will be completed. Inexperienced developers may also struggle with the flexibility of the approach, as it requires a high degree of collaboration and communication. There is also a higher risk of scope creep . As changes can be made throughout the development process, there is a risk that the project will expand beyond its original scope, resulting in delays and additional costs.

Popular Agile frameworks

Scrum is an iterative, flexible, and collaborative Agile framework for software project management . It emphasizes Daily Stand-up meetings, time-bound sprints, constant feedback, and team self-management. This framework is particularly popular in the software development industry, as it allows for a high degree of collaboration and communication between the development team and the customer.

Kanban is a visual process management tool that allows teams to visualize work, limit work-in-progress, and focus on delivering small units of work continuously. It emphasizes just-in-time delivery, flow, and continuous improvement. This framework is particularly useful for projects that require a high degree of flexibility and adaptability, as changes can be made quickly and easily.

Extreme Programming (XP)

Extreme Programming (XP) is an Agile software development methodology that boasts flexibility, customer satisfaction, and high quality. It emphasizes frequent releases, continuous delivery, test-driven development, code review, and pair programming. This framework works well with projects that require a high degree of collaboration and communication between the development team and the customer, as it allows for a high degree of feedback and iteration throughout the entire development process.

The selection of the right software development methodology depends on several factors, including project type, size, complexity, budget, and timeline. While the Waterfall model is suitable for well-defined projects, the Agile methodology is ideal for projects with changing requirements. Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming are popular Agile frameworks that provide flexibility, responsiveness, and high-quality product delivery. By selecting the right methodology, software development projects can achieve success more efficiently, saving time and effort in the process.

Navigate the complex world of software development methodologies with confidence using Wrike's robust project management features. Experience a Wrike free trial and streamline every aspect of your software development projects.

Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.

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Method to the Madness: An Overview of Common Software Development Methodologies

In today's rapidly evolving digital world, businesses are increasingly focused on building scalable and feature-rich software solutions to address the challenges faced by their clients and within their organizations. To achieve this, software development methodologies play a crucial role in ensuring a systematic and efficient development process. With a wide range of methodologies available, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable one for a specific project. In this article, we will analyze and compare various popular software development methodologies, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Methodology in the Software Development Industry

A software development methodology is a framework or approach used to structure, plan, and control the process of developing an information system. It encompasses the entire software development life cycle, from idea generation and planning to front-end and back-end development, testing, and software launch. The primary objectives of software development methodologies are to effectively organize workflow, reduce development time and costs, track progress, facilitate effective communication, and improve the quality of the final product.

Agile Software Development Methodology

The Agile software development methodology is a popular approach that focuses on the iterative and incremental development of a project. It emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, and customer collaboration throughout the development process. Unlike traditional methodologies, Agile allows for continuous feedback and the incorporation of changes based on user and customer input.

This methodology breaks down the development process into short iterations, known as sprints, which typically last for one to four weeks. Each sprint delivers a small, fully functional increment of the software, allowing for rapid and continuous delivery of value to the customer.

Benefits of Agile Development Methodology:

• Early detection and resolution of problems
• Higher flexibility and adaptability to changes in project requirements
• Shortened time to deliverables
• Enhanced communication and customer engagement
• High-quality final product

Drawbacks of Agile Development Methodology:

• Limited understanding of solution specifics before implementation
• Potential risks of ignoring project documentation and requirements
• Uncertainty in budgeting, marketing plans, and sales
• Requirement for immediate response to issues and feedback
• Possibility of getting lost in details and deviating from the project course

Scrum Software Development Methodology

Scrum software development methodology is a popular framework that is widely used in the software development industry. It is an agile approach that emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and adaptability. The methodology is based on iterative and incremental development, allowing for regular reviews and feedback to improve the product continuously. Scrum relies on a set of roles, events, and artifacts to effectively manage and deliver software projects.

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Benefits of Scrum Development Methodology:

• Flexibility and Adaptability : Scrum allows teams to adapt to changes quickly and efficiently, making it ideal for projects with evolving requirements.
• Increased Productivity : The iterative approach of Scrum often leads to quicker release cycles, enhancing overall productivity.
• Enhanced Quality : Regular reviews and iterations help in identifying and fixing defects early, improving the final product's quality.
• Improved Stakeholder Engagement : Regular meetings and reviews keep stakeholders involved and informed, leading to better alignment with their expectations.
• Better Team Morale : Scrum emphasizes team collaboration and empowerment, which can lead to higher motivation and job satisfaction among team members.
• Risk Reduction : Frequent assessments of progress and obstacles help in identifying and mitigating risks early in the project.
• Clearer Communication : Daily stand-up meetings and regular interactions ensure that team members are always on the same page.
• Focus on Customer Value : Scrum prioritizes features based on customer value, ensuring that the most valuable features are developed first.

Drawbacks of Scrum Development Methodology:

• Not Ideal for All Project Types : Scrum might not be suitable for projects with fixed requirements or those that are not complex.
• Requires Experienced Team Members : To be effective, Scrum requires team members who are experienced in this methodology.
• Potential for Scope Creep : Due to its iterative nature, there's a risk of continuous changes leading to scope creep.
• Dependence on Team Dynamics : The success of Scrum heavily relies on the team's ability to work collaboratively and cohesively.
• Time-Consuming Meetings : Daily meetings and regular reviews can sometimes be time-consuming and may hinder actual work progress.
• Possible Overemphasis on Delivery Speed : The focus on quick deliverables might compromise the depth of feature development.
• Difficulty in Scaling : Scrum can be challenging to scale across large teams or multiple teams working on the same project.
• Requires Full Commitment : For Scrum to be effective, it requires full commitment from all team members and stakeholders, which can be challenging to achieve.

Rapid Application Development Methodology (RAD)

Rapid Application Development ( RAD ) is also an agile software development approach that emphasizes quick prototyping and iterative feedback from end users. This method aims to minimize the time and cost involved in developing new applications by focusing on rapid development cycles and close collaboration between developers and users. RAD allows for quicker deployment of new software solutions and enables businesses to adapt to changing market demands more effectively.

The key principles of RAD include active user involvement, iterative development, and flexible, adaptable processes. By embracing RAD, organizations can accelerate their time-to-market for new products and services, while also enhancing their ability to respond to customer needs and market changes. The RAD approach is well-suited for projects with a defined scope and clear requirements, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to streamline their application development processes and stay ahead of their competition in today's fast-paced digital landscape. 

Benefits of Rapid Application Development:

• Faster Development : RAD enables faster development and delivery of software products, reducing time to market.
• Increased Flexibility : The approach is highly adaptable to changes, allowing for adjustments throughout the development process.
• Enhanced Customer Satisfaction : Continuous customer feedback ensures that the final product aligns closely with user expectations.
• Reduced Risk : The iterative nature allows for early detection and resolution of issues, reducing overall project risk.
• Improved Quality : Regular testing and customer feedback help in refining the product continuously, leading to higher quality.
• Better Collaboration : RAD encourages ongoing collaboration between developers and customers, leading to a more cohesive product.
• Focus on Essential Features : It emphasizes delivering a working product with essential features first, followed by iterative enhancements.
• Resource Efficiency : The method can be more resource-efficient as it aims to produce deliverables quickly with a focus on key functionalities.

Drawbacks of Rapid Application Development:

• Dependence on Strong Team Collaboration : RAD requires a highly collaborative team and strong communication, which may not be feasible in all organizations.
• Not Suitable for Large Projects : The RAD model may not be effective for very large projects due to its focus on speed and flexibility.
• Higher Cost : The need for rapid prototyping and frequent iterations can lead to increased costs.
• Requires Highly Skilled Developers : Successful implementation of RAD often requires a team of highly skilled and experienced developers.
• Limited Documentation : The focus on rapid development can sometimes lead to inadequate documentation, affecting future maintenance and scalability.
• Risk of Scope Creep : Continuous changes and additions can lead to scope creep if not carefully managed.
• Potential for Quality Issues : The fast-paced nature of RAD might compromise the depth and thoroughness of testing, possibly affecting the product's quality.
• Challenging for Fixed Requirements : RAD is less suitable for projects with fixed requirements or where the end goal is not subject to change.

Feature Driven Development (FDD)

Feature-driven Development ( FDD ) is a software development methodology that focuses on delivering tangible, working features in short iterations. It is a highly structured approach that emphasizes building and delivering features that are functionally complete and meet the needs of the end users. FDD also puts a strong emphasis on design and architecture, with an iterative and incremental approach to development.

This methodology is particularly effective for large and complex projects, as it breaks down the development process into manageable chunks and allows for rapid feedback and adaptation. FDD is characterized by its focus on clear, concise feature descriptions, which serve as a guideline for the development team. This approach fosters a strong sense of accountability and visibility, as progress can be easily monitored and tracked based on the completion of features.

Overall, FDD provides a disciplined and systematic way of developing software, ensuring that the end product meets the requirements and expectations of the stakeholders. 

Benefits of Feature Driven Development:

• Clear Focus on Features : FDD's approach of breaking down the project into tangible features makes it easier to manage and track progress.
• Enhanced Customer Value : By prioritizing features based on customer needs, FDD ensures that the most valuable aspects of the product are developed first.
• Regular Milestones : Frequent, shorter-term milestones allow for regular progress checks and adjustments.
• High-Quality Output : Emphasis on design and build by feature often results in high-quality code and end products.
• Scalable for Large Teams : FDD is designed to be scalable and works well with larger teams, unlike some other agile methodologies.
• Well-Defined Roles and Processes : The methodology has clearly defined roles and structured processes, which can improve overall team efficiency.
• Improved Predictability : The focus on feature-based work packages allows for better predictability in project timelines and budgets.
• Efficient for Complex Projects : FDD is particularly effective for complex and lengthy projects due to its structured approach.

Drawbacks of Feature Driven Development:

• Less Flexibility : FDD's structured approach may offer less flexibility compared to other agile methodologies like Scrum.
• Requires Detailed Documentation : The methodology necessitates extensive documentation and upfront planning, which can be time-consuming.
• Not Ideal for Small Projects : FDD might be overkill for smaller or less complex projects, where simpler methods could suffice.
• Dependence on Initial Modeling : The success of FDD heavily relies on the accuracy of the initial model and feature list.
• Risk of Feature Creep : The focus on features can sometimes lead to feature creep, with an ever-growing list of features.
• Requires Experienced Developers : FDD is best implemented by teams with experienced developers who understand the intricacies of the methodology.
• Potential for Over-Engineering : There's a risk of over-engineering in FDD as it emphasizes a comprehensive approach to feature development.
• Challenges in Integration : Integrating multiple features developed in parallel can be challenging and may require additional time and effort.

Waterfall Development Methodology

The Waterfall methodology is a sequential and linear approach to software development. It follows a structured and rigid framework, where each phase of the development process must be completed before proceeding to the next.

The Waterfall model is often considered a classic representation of software development, providing a clear plan with defined goals and requirements from the outset. It is best suited for projects with well-defined and stable requirements, where changes are unlikely to occur.

Benefits of the Waterfall Development Model:

• Simple and straightforward project plan
• Easy understanding of all processes
• Enforced discipline and adherence to timelines
• Planned testing scenarios
• Predictable outcomes based on defined requirements

Drawbacks of the Waterfall Method:

• Challenges in organizing the planning stage and accommodating changes once development begins
• Potential for increased costs due to immediate changes
• Longer delivery time
• Unsuitable for long or ongoing projects

Extreme Programming Method

Extreme Programming ( XP ) is an agile software development approach that focuses on rapid and frequent releases of software. It emphasizes collaboration, feedback, and adaptability, making it suitable for unstable and rapidly changing projects. XP methodology is known for its customer-centric approach, with significant customer involvement throughout the development process.

It promotes practices such as pair programming, continuous testing, and constant communication to ensure high-quality software delivery.

Benefits of Extreme Programming Method:

• Significant customer involvement resulting in high-quality products
• Stable final product through continuous software testing
• High level of flexibility and ability to implement changes quickly
• Clear and comprehensive code
• No rush to meet timelines, allowing developers to work at their own pace

Drawbacks of Extreme Programming Method:

• Efficiency depends on the capabilities of the individuals involved
• Uncertainty regarding future results
• Need for constant client engagement
• Comparatively high time and cost investments
• Challenging for small teams lacking necessary skills and expertise

Lean Development Methodology

Lean Development is a software development methodology that focuses on delivering value to the client while minimizing waste. It aims to reduce unnecessary tasks and processes, allowing for efficient and effective software development. Lean development emphasizes the elimination of non-value-adding activities and the continuous improvement of the development process.

By prioritizing value for the client and removing waste, Lean development enables teams to focus on meaningful work and deliver high-value features.

Benefits of Lean Development Methodology:

• Suitable for low-budget projects and time limitations
• Focus on delivering on-demand tasks
• Fast deliverability by eliminating waste and useless processes
• Scalability for large projects
• Enhanced teamwork and improved productivity

Drawbacks of Lean Development Methodology:

• Dependence on the working capacity of the team
• Potential lack of expertise and experience
• Risk of losing project focus by cutting too many things
• Possibility of delays due to bottlenecks or resource limitations
• Need for excellent documentation to ensure correct development

Prototyping Methodology

The Prototyping methodology is a software development approach that involves creating prototypes of the software to gather feedback and evaluate functionality before proceeding with full-scale development. It allows for early detection of errors and issues, as well as the incorporation of client and user feedback.

Prototyping methodology focuses on analyzing the actual look and feel of the system being developed, enabling easier detection of errors and more effective implementation of missing or revised functions.

Benefits of Prototyping Methodology:

• Improvement of system functionality through analysis of prototypes
• High involvement of clients and end-users during the development process
• Effective detection of errors and issues
• Flexibility in the development process
• Reduced time and costs through early detection of critical issues

Drawbacks of Prototyping Methodology:

• Potential slowdown due to excessive client involvement
• Possibility of increased budget due to management costs
• Increased complexity of the system beyond original plans
• Risk of reusing existing prototypes that may not meet client expectations
• Potential for overdoing development efforts, leading to increased time and costs

Selecting the Right Software Development Methodology

Selecting the best software development methodology is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success and efficiency of a project. This choice should be tailored to the specific needs, goals, and constraints of the project and the organization. Key factors to consider include:

Project Size and Complexity : Larger and more complex projects may benefit from methodologies like Feature Driven Development or the Waterfall model, which offer structured approaches. In contrast, smaller projects might be better suited to more flexible and iterative methodologies like Agile or Scrum.

Team Size and Experience : The size and experience level of the development team play a crucial role. Agile methodologies, for instance, require highly collaborative teams with a good level of self-organization and experience in agile practices.

Customer Involvement : Projects that require frequent customer feedback and changes benefit from methodologies like Agile or Rapid Application Development, which incorporate regular client input and iterative development.

Time to Market : If rapid delivery is a priority, methodologies like Rapid Application Development or Agile, which emphasize quick iterations and fast releases, might be more appropriate.

Risk Management : Methodologies with regular checkpoints, like Scrum or FDD, are better at early risk identification and management, which is crucial for projects with high uncertainty.

Documentation and Compliance Needs : Projects requiring detailed documentation for compliance or future maintenance might lean towards methodologies like Waterfall, which emphasize comprehensive documentation.

Flexibility and Adaptability : For projects in dynamic environments where requirements are expected to change, flexible methodologies like Agile or Scrum are more suitable.

In conclusion, the selection of a software development method should be a thoughtful process, considering various project-specific factors. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, and often, a hybrid or customized methodology may provide the optimal balance needed for a project's unique requirements.

Methodologies at Softjourn

At Softjourn, we understand the importance of planning and structuring each stage of the software development process to ensure the highest quality outcomes. Our team of experienced developers follows a Software Development Life Cycle that encompasses project planning, analysis, design, development, testing, and deployment. We primarily use the Scrum methodology, an agile framework that allows for iterative and incremental development, ensuring continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

Software development methodologies are essential for organizing and optimizing the software development process. With a wide range of methodologies available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, it is crucial to choose the most suitable one for your specific project.

By considering factors such as flexibility, end-user requirements, project size, time frame, and team location, you can select the methodology that aligns with your needs and maximizes the success of your software development project. Whether you choose agile methodologies like Agile, Scrum, or Extreme Programming, or more traditional approaches like Waterfall, Lean, or Prototyping, the right methodology can streamline your development process and deliver high-quality software solutions.

At Softjourn, we leverage our expertise and experience to guide our clients in selecting and implementing the most effective software development methodologies for their projects.

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What are Software Development Methodologies | 15 Key Methodologies

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The main objective of Software Development companies is to provide high quality software products at low cost. Therefore, proper planning is required and proper management is required for the software development process. Thus a proper methodology is important for achieving this type of objectives by the companies and organizations. There are multiple types of Software development methodologies and in this article a detailed knowledge is provided about the Top 15 Software Development Methodologies.

Table of Content

• What is Software Development Methodology ?

Top 15 Software Development Methodology

1. agile methodology, 2. behaviour-driven development, 3. lean development, 4. scrum methodology, 5. waterfall methodology, 6. feature driven development (fdd), 7. extreme programming (xp), 8. spiral methodology, 9. rapid application development (rad), 10. prototyping methodology, 11. rational unified process methodology, 12. adaptive software development, 13. dynamic systems development model , 14. devops methodology, 15. joint application development methodology, what are software development methodologies .

Software Development Methodologies are defined as a process in which the software developers design, develop and test the new computer programs and it is also used in the betterment of the software projects. These software development methodologies follow a particular design philosophy in which it helps the software developers to align these processes and the features of the software product. With the help of these agile methodologies also simplify the tasks and improve the collaboration in the companies.

There are various types of Software Development methodologies which are used for developing better and high quality software development projects which further help the software developers to plan, develop and test the software . The top 15 Software Development Methodologies are mentioned below:

In the IT field Agile methodology is one of the most popular software engineering techniques in which various software production methodologies are related to the principles of agile. The main objective of Agile methodologies is to finish the product with collaborative efforts and the  main benefit of this methodology is that it ensures regular release of products and continuous improvement with every iteration.

Advantages of Agile Methodology

• Due to involvement of small iteration it delivers high quality of output.
• With the help of Agile methodology allows creative improvements whenever working on the software product.
• The agile methodology is popular for its minimal reliance and adaptivity on the initial documentation.

Disadvantages of Agile Methodology

• Agile methodology doesn’t consist of any deadlines.
• Agile methodology also lacks clarity and the project vision.

Agile Software Development Methodology

BDD refers to Behaviour-driven development which is a variation of agile methodology which formalizes a vision among the team members of how an app needs to be performed. BDD’s main objective is to enable the non-tech people to take active roles in the implementation of the technical functionality.

Advantage of Behaviour-Driven Development

• With the help of BDD methodology some better opportunities are provided for the collaboration between the software developers.
• Behaviour-Driven development also automates the end-user documentation which are based on the specifications.

Disadvantages of Behaviour-Driven Development

• BDD is not useful for long term projects.
• BDD methodology also requires a lot of effort and time for developing scenarios.

BDD Life Cycle

The Lean development methodology focuses on developing cost-effective and high quality softwares. The lean development workflow particularly follows a minimalist approach for deleting the extra elements like the documentation and meetings. The main objective of lean development is to make software’s which can easily accommodate the changes.

Advantages of Lean Development

• Lean methodology is effective as it is cost friendly.
• The lean development allows the team to speed the software development process and to finish more projects in short period of time.

Disadvantages of Lean Development

• Lean development lacks documentation concerning business means.

Lean Development

Scrum is one of the most popular frameworks which is based on the agile methodology which is empirical in nature and it is famous for managing projects which do not have well defined feedback from the customers.

Advantages of Scrum Methodology

• Scrum methodology helps the team members make the decisions on the main principal project.
• With the help of the scrum methodology the developers can detect the problems fastly and easily.

Disadvantages of Scrum Methodology

• Scrum is not effective for the junior team members and it is also less effective for the big project types.

Scrum Methodology

Waterfall methodology is one of traditional methods which consist of a popular classic approach and it is also a popular version of the software development lifecycle in the field of software engineering.

Advantages of Waterfall Methodology

• Waterfall methodology can easily manage small projects and has a separate review process.
• In waterfall methodology it consists of separate development stages deadlines.

Disadvantages of Waterfall Methodology

• Waterfall methodology is not applied for the projects which need modifications on the way.

Waterfall Methodology

FDD refers to Feature Driven iterative methodology but it is in the combination with object modelling and it is also beneficial for big team projects. FDD is a five step development process which helps in accelerating the software delivery easily.

Advantage of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

• Feature Driven Development supports various teams which work parallel.
• FDD covers up all the big or small projects which require some sequential updates.
• This feature driven development methodology is mainly suitable for large projects.

Disadvantage of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

• FDD provides no documentation support to the project owners.
• FDD is a complex pattern development for the junior developers.

Feature Driven Development (FDD)

XP or Extreme programming is also used to define the agile methodology whose main objective is to develop a fully functional product as it is also helpful in developing complex projects with fixed deadlines. XP is mostly suitable for developing software in unstable environments.

Advantages of Extreme Programming (XP)

• Extreme programming is cost effective and it works well with large and small teams.
• XP is also useful for risk management which overall increases the chance of success.

Disadvantages of Extreme Programming (XP)

• Extreme programming needs regular reviews and meetings between the stakeholders which leads to more time consumption.

Extreme Programming

Spiral methodology is a lifecycle model which is highly sophisticated and it functions by the early identifications and the reduction of the risks in a project. Spiral methodology makes sure that the software developers can make necessary changes in the design or in the code in the testing stage.

Advantage of Spiral Methodology

• Spiral methodology involves large risk analysis which further leads to less risks.
• The main advantage of the spiral model is that required changes can be made even in the last testing stage.

Disadvantage of Spiral Methodology

• Spiral methodology is a complete waste of resources for the projects which consists of low risks factors.

Spiral Methodology

RAD refers to Rapid Application development which is made of delivering speedy results with high quality of software and this method is particularly complemented by the participation of active users in the process of development.

Advantage of Rapid Application Development (RAD)

• The RAD model is a regular testing method which deletes the chances of drastic errors.
• RAD models tasks are completed separately and then integrated into one project.

Disadvantage of Rapid Application Development (RAD)

• RAD is not applicable and practical for the projects of low budget.

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

Prototyping methodology is a type of model where software developers initially make a prototype of the software solution and also visualize how it can run and prove its functions to the customers.

Advantage of Prototyping Methodology

• Prototyping methodology is used by the software developers who are working on a prototype and can easily scale it with the anticipation of the customer.
• Prototyping is the best way to present the software project in front of the customers or the clients.

Disadvantage of Prototyping Methodology

• In prototyping methodology regular changes in the design can slow down the workflows.

Prototype Methodology

RUP refers to Rational Unified Process which is an object oriented program development. This RUP methodology is a modern approach which functions by splitting the workflow into four parts like analysis, implementation, business modelling and deployment.

Advantages of Rational Unified Process Methodology

• RUP consists of no time frames for the integration as it is a continuous process throughout the process of development.
• Rational Unified Process is used  for managing the risks related to the change in request management.

Disadvantage of Rational Unified Process Methodology

• RUP is not beneficial for the new users as it can be used by the users having expert skills in it.

Rational Unified Process Methodology

Adaptive Software development model is a non-linear approach which helps to meet the initial objective and goals by adapting the requirements of the business. ASD assumes that every life cycle can be iterated and modified whenever another one is executed.

Advantages of Adaptive Software Development

• ASD method tools make sure that the development occurs in high quality and low maintenance products.
• For quickly changing the requirements short feedback loops provide more opportunities.

Disadvantage of Adaptive Software Development

• ASD involves regular collaboration with the users throughout the development phase which takes a lot of time.

Adaptive Software Development Methodology

Dynamic Systems development model is an easy to use methodology and its main principle is the model is a perfect software which involves end users a lot and establishes a basic understanding of system functions.

Advantages of Dynamic Systems Development Model 

• Dynamic system models are always in the budget range and timeframe.
• This dynamic system development model is easy to use with the access of end users by the software developers.

Disadvantage of Dynamic Systems Development Model 

• Dynamic systems models are only useful for businesses with one time projects or low budgets.

Dynamic System Development Methodology

DevOps methodology is used in IT operations to function together and allows the teams to collaborate from the design phase to the product release phase. DevOps also provides developing, testing and releasing software’s on short time.

Advantages of DevOps Methodology

• DevOps methodology provides regular delivery and also allows the company to make product improvements whenever it is needed.
• The simultaneous delivery of work between both the teams on the project activities accelerates the software delivery.

Disadvantage of DevOps Methodology

• DevOps production environment in the cloud results in compatibility issues.

DevOps Methodology

Joint Application Development methodology is used for the business software solutions and the design and development stages of software production involved in interactive workshops.

Advantages of Joint Application Development Methodology

• In joint application development, high quality software is developed with a low tendency of errors.
• Joint application methodology develops insights through the exchange of valuable information between the developers and users.

Disadvantage of Joint Application Development Methodology

• The joint application methodology is a time consuming method for any project development team.

Joint Application Development methodology

The Software Development methodologies are important in software development and also benefits the organizations in multiple ways by helping software developers so that they produce high quality software products and cost-effective software’s. Therefore in this article all the top 15 software development methodologies are mentioned with a detailed understanding of each methodology with their benefits.

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An Introduction To Software Development Methodologies

There are numerous ways to organise the process of developing and writing code. Although it is impossible to mandate one way as the only path, there is a great deal to learn from each one. Learn about the benefits to working in different formats and procedural approaches in this overview on code-creation techniques. Watch our video to understand the main concepts in processes that are known to generate a successful outcome with code design.

Video Transcript:

Software development methodologies

Development methodologies is a battle between dogmatism and pragmatism. Dogmatism is people who just have a zeal – they say that this way is the way, if you deviate from this way, all is lost. Pragmatism, pulling together what works in the moment.

There are definite benefits to both. The people who are more dogmatic versus pragmatic, I believe produce a better level of insight into the system; because they’re really spending a lot of time focusing on their tool and what it can do and how to optimise it. They produce a better raw product. Pragmatists can look at all of these raw products and say, I’ll take that bit from there and that bit from there and can be more effective when it comes to changing requirements and changing projects.

What is a software development methodology?

Software development methodology is a process or series of processes used in software development. Again, quite broad but that it is things like a design phase, a development phase. It is ways of thinking about things like waterfall being a non iterative kind of process. Generally it takes the form of defined phases. It is designed to describe the how of the life cycle of a piece of software.

It is also codified communication. So you’re actually setting a set of norms between a group of people that say this is how you’re going to work and this is how you’re going to pass information between each of you in certain ways; whether that is documentation, whether that is discussion, whether that is drawings on paper.

So some examples

Surely there couldn’t be that many different software development methodologies. There are as many as you can possibly find and pretty much any time someone has one and decides to vary it even slightly from an existing one, they will put a new label on it and call it something new. That makes it quite hard to be across all of the different types.

One of the things I want to talk through is how unimportant it is to be fixed on using just one of these. I’m going to talk through a few different ones.

• I’m going to talk through agile
• I’m going to talk through lean
• I’m going to talk through waterfall

I will look at some of the pros and cons of all of them and how every one of them has benefits that you could use to apply to your business.

Before we begin though, the biggest single lie when talking about software development methodologies is that there is one outright winner – that if you use this process it will produce perfection every single time. And that if you don’t get a good result out of it that you yourself have misapplied the process in some form. That is the hardest part. It is saying that it would have worked had you adhered to the process more carefully.

One thing is for certain; writing code and bringing it together in a working form requires discipline and organisation. The skills that are required involve a team that is centered around a plan of action. Even if there is one person writing the code, there must be some form of management to plan the approach that works for a successful outcome. Now that you have an overview of these processes, you can learn about the system that makes the most sense for your project.

Are you looking for the right approach for your software development? Get in touch with us today.

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Navigating Software Creation: A Guide to the Top 5 Software Development Methodologies

Table of contents.

In the digital age, where software is the linchpin of business success, choosing the right software development methodology cannot be overstated. These software development methodologies are not merely strategies but guiding principles that frame the approach to creating robust software solutions.

Understanding Various Software Development Methodologies

Software development methodologies are structured processes for developing information systems. They offer a systematic approach to project management, design, and software engineering. In essence, they’re the compass that guides teams from conception to completion, ensuring quality and efficiency.

Agile: The Dynamic Contender

Agile methodology has revolutionized the software development industry with its emphasis on adaptability and customer-centricity. Agile methodology is a flexible, iterative approach to software development that emphasizes the rapid delivery of functional software components. Unlike traditional methods, Agile accepts change as an inherent part of the development process and encourages constant feedback from end-users. It focuses on cross-functional teams working collaboratively through regular scrums to assess progress and adapt as needed. Agile promotes a highly interactive environment where small, incremental updates are delivered frequently, allowing for quick responses to change and a focus on delivering real value to customers promptly.

• Flexibility : Agile adapts to changes even late in the development process.
• Customer Satisfaction : Continuous delivery ensures that the client’s needs are met promptly.
• Team Morale : Agile fosters a collaborative and empowering environment for the development team.
• Less Predictability : Agile’s flexible nature can sometimes lead to scope creep and budget overruns.
• Requires Expertise : Agile demands a high level of expertise from team members for effective implementation.
• Not Ideal for All Projects : Agile may not be suitable for projects requiring a fixed scope and budget.

Waterfall Methodology: Sequential and Structured

Waterfall methodology is one of the oldest paradigms of software development, characterized by a linear and sequential design process. It follows a rigid structure where each phase of development cascades into the next, much like a waterfall. This methodology is divided into distinct stages such as requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Each stage must be completed before the next begins, with a heavy emphasis on documentation and planning. Waterfall is best suited for projects with well-defined requirements and where changes are not expected during the development process.

• Simplicity in Management : The straightforward, linear progression of phases makes the Waterfall method easy to understand, manage, and explain to stakeholders.
• Well-Defined Structure : Each phase has specific deliverables and a review process, which helps in the meticulous organization of tasks.
• Suitable for Stable Environments : Works best for projects with clear objectives and stable requirements that are unlikely to change.
• Ideal for Predictable Projects : Beneficial for projects where the end product is well-understood from the outset.
• Documentation Focus : Encourages thorough documentation, which can be helpful for future maintenance and reference.
• Inflexibility : Once a phase is completed, it is difficult to go back and make changes without starting over, making it less adaptable to change.
• Late Testing Stage : Testing is one of the last phases, which can lead to the discovery of problems late in the process, increasing the cost of fixing them.
• Longer Delivery Times : This tends to be slower due to its sequential nature, which can delay the testing and implementation of the product.
• Not Suitable for Complex Projects : The method can be less effective for projects where requirements are uncertain or likely to change.
• Risk and Issue Identification : Problems and risks are often identified when it is too late or too costly to address them effectively.

V-Shaped Model: Validation and Verification Focus

The V-shaped model is an extension of the Waterfall methodology that adds a strong emphasis on testing. It’s characterized by a corresponding testing phase for each development stage. This model is also known as the Verification and Validation model, where development moves downwards through the design and build phases (Verification) and then upwards through testing and maintenance phases (Validation), forming a V shape. It is suitable for projects with clear objectives and stable requirements. The main advantage of this model is its rigorous testing at each development stage, but changes can be costly due to the model’s inherent rigidity.

• Highly Disciplined Approach : The V-Model is systematic and sequential, ensuring that each phase is completed before the next begins.
• Ideal for Small Projects : It works best for small projects with well-defined requirements.
• Early Error Detection : With a focus on verification and validation, the model increases the likelihood of detecting errors early.
• Enhanced Project Tracking : Allows for precise tracking of project milestones and progress.
• Clear Structure : The V-Model’s structured nature facilitates better communication and understanding.
• Lacks Flexibility : The model struggles with projects where requirements are ambiguous or likely to change.
• Not Iterative : Does not support revisiting and iterating phases, making it ill-suited for evolving projects.
• Poor Handling of Concurrent Events : The sequential nature of the model does not cater well to concurrent or overlapping events.
• Time and Documentation Intensive : This can be slower due to its extensive documentation and testing requirements.
• Rigid : Adjusting to new requirements or unexpected changes can be challenging and costly.

Incremental Model: Progressive Development and Integration

The Incremental model is a method of software development where the product is designed, implemented, and tested incrementally (a little more is added each time) until the product is finished. It involves both development and maintenance. The product is decomposed into several components, each of which is developed and added to the product in successive versions until the complete product is ready. This model allows for partial implementations of the product to be delivered to the customer and go into production earlier during the life cycle. It can be very effective for projects with well-understood requirements that are expected to evolve over time.

• Meets Objectives Fully : Tends to fully achieve software goals by meeting all specified requirements.
• Flexible : Allows for changes in scope and requirements at any stage.
• Early Deliverables : Functional products are delivered earlier in the development process.
• Client Feedback : Enables frequent client interaction and feedback on each increment.
• Simplifies Error Identification : Facilitates easy identification and management of risks and errors.
• Requires Thorough Planning : Needs detailed planning and a clear understanding of the complete system.
• Initial Requirement Clarity : A clear definition of the entire system is required upfront to be effective.
• Architecture Challenges : System architecture may face difficulties if all requirements are not understood initially.
• Time-Consuming Error Corrections : Amending errors in multiple units can be time-intensive.
• Rigid Iteration Phases : Phases do not overlap and must be completed in sequence.

Rapid Application Development (RAD): Speedy Development and Iterations

Rapid Application Development is a type of Agile software development methodology that prioritizes rapid prototype releases and iterations. Unlike traditional waterfall methods, RAD focuses on the use of software and user feedback over strict planning and requirements recording. It’s ideal for projects that need to be developed within a short span of time. RAD involves user participation, reusable software components, and informal team communications. The key benefits of RAD are fast project turnaround times and high-quality systems due to user involvement, though it may not be suitable for projects with tight budgets or lacking flexibility for rapid changes.

• Speedy Development : Ideal for projects with a clear business objective and user group that are not computationally complex.
• Time-Sensitive Projects : Can deliver products quickly for small to medium-sized projects.
• User-Centric : Involves user feedback and iterations for better end-product usability.
• Requires Expertise : Needs a stable team of highly skilled developers and knowledgeable users.
• Intensive Knowledge Requirement : A deep understanding of the application area is crucial for success.
• Limited Scope : Not suitable for large, complex projects that require longer development times.
• Resource Intensive : This can require significant resources to ensure the quality and speed of deliverables.
• Dependency on User Involvement : Heavy reliance on user participation can lead to challenges if stakeholder engagement is low.

Selection Among the Appropriate Software Development Methodologies

Choosing the correct software development methodology is akin to selecting the right tool for a job. Factors to consider include:

• Project Size and Complexity : Larger, more complex projects may benefit from the structure of Waterfall, while smaller, more adaptive projects might thrive with Agile.
• Team Dynamics : A team’s ability to adapt and manage change is critical when considering Agile or DevOps.
• Stakeholder Involvement : Projects with active stakeholder participation are well-suited to Agile’s iterative approach.

The Role of these Software Development Methodologies in Shaping Team Dynamics

The chosen methodology dictates the workflow, communication channels, and overall team structure. It’s essential to align team capabilities and project needs with the methodology’s demands to ensure a harmonious and effective working environment.

Wrapping Up: The Blueprint for Software Excellence

One of the chosen software development methodologies is the blueprint that shapes the entire lifecycle of a software project. From the way, team members interact to how problems are solved and changes are managed, the methodology lays the foundation for success or failure.

In essence, software development methodologies are more than just industry jargon; they’re the strategic core that dictates how a team will navigate the complexities of software creation. Making an informed choice can be the difference between a product that excels and one that merely functions.

As we stand on the precipice of an AI-driven future, the software development methodologies we choose today will define the software landscape of tomorrow. The key is to select a methodology that not only aligns with the project’s goals but also harnesses the strengths of the team, ensuring a path to innovation and market success.

If you find yourself at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take for your software development or web application development journey, consider partnering with HyScaler. Our expertise lies in tailoring development strategies that resonate with your vision while offering scalability, technical prowess, and a commitment to quality. With HyScaler, you can leverage the collective knowledge and experience of seasoned experts to guide your project from conception to completion, ensuring that your software not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Ready to take your project to the next level? Connect with HyScaler today, and let’s transform your software development aspirations into a tangible, successful reality.

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Software development

Understanding the Different Types of Software Development Methodologies

Get a comprehensive overview of software development methodologies! From basic principles to helpful tips & tricks, learn about each approach and how to best utilize it for success.

What are Software Development Methodologies?

Software development methodologies refer to the frameworks and approaches used for developing software solutions. These methodologies – such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, Kanban, and Lean – provide guidance on how to break down complex tasks into smaller actionable steps in order to achieve a desired outcome. Each approach carries its pros and cons depending on individual projects needs, so it’s important to carefully evaluate and select the most suitable option for your objectives.

Use Different Combinations of Techniques for Improved Efficiency.

Software development methodologies can be combined in order to create more efficient models. Using multiple approaches in tandem allows teams to utilize the best principles from each methodology, without having to restrict themselves to just one particular approach. Combination models can also be used for complex tasks that are difficult to manage using a single methodology. When taken into account and utilized effectively, combining different software development techniques can result in improved time and cost efficiency for your team.

Most used software development methodologies

There are two large groups of software development methodologies today. On the one hand we have the traditional software development methodologies and, on the other, the agile ones, which are the most used by professionals today. 

Traditional software development methodologies

This type of methodologies are characterised by the definition of the fundamental requirements and the actions to be implemented prior to the implementation of software development projects, with the aim of obtaining good results efficiently.

One of the differential points of the traditional software development methodologies with respect to the agile ones that we will explain below is the impossibility of making any changes during the development process of the project in question, since the work to be executed is organized in such a way that it follows a linear structure, so it will not be possible to carry out the next task without the previous one having been completed.

At the beginning of the project we must prepare an estimate of the requirements, the design and the analysis that we will carry out in the software development process. In this case, experience will be of great help to get our project prediction right. The main traditional software development methodologies are the ones mentioned below:

• incremental
• Rapid Application Design (RAD)

Agile software development methodologies

Agile is the most popular of software development methodologies – and for good reason. The primary focus of the agile approach is on iterative delivery of deliverables over a period of time, rather than aiming to deliver all items at once. This ensures that progress can be easily tracked and monitored throughout the project. The ability to quickly adapt and pivot also allows teams to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise. As a result, agile methods are ideal for teams who are trying to develop solutions quickly without sacrificing quality.

Agile software development methodologies are the most widely used and are defined by their agile and flexible nature to changes, so the possibility of failing or obtaining bad results will be considerably reduced.

The main advantage of this type of methodologies is the ability to adapt the software to changes or needs that arise throughout the project. In this way, the work teams in charge of software development are characterized by being independent and self-sufficient, expressing and contributing ideas and advice at all times to obtain satisfactory results. The client, for his part, also has the possibility of proposing the changes or corrections that he deems necessary, since he will be able to visualize and know how his project is progressing.

Among the most used and well-known agile work methods are Scrum, Kanban and Extreme Programming-XP, among others. Let's talk about them!

Scrum is the most widely used agile software development methodology today and focuses on incremental development. Its main objective is to guarantee quality results, and for this, it focuses special attention on getting to know the team of people in charge of carrying out the project. In addition to this, customer satisfaction does not go unnoticed by the Scrum strategy, and to achieve it, through this methodology, a great effort is dedicated to guessing exactly what the customer is looking for and intends to find.

For Scrum, meetings and continuous communication by the team to discuss the progress made and review each sprint play an important role in achieving the objectives set.

Kanban is a Japanese word that means "visual cards", so its name already gives us some clue as to what this software development methodology consists of. This development methodology was created by Toyota.

The objective of Kanban is to make use of a "card system" to provide the company and its employees with the knowledge of the actions and processes that are being executed in the company. This strategy considerably increases the productivity of the workers, since a task will not start without first having finished the previous one.

Kanban pays special attention to continuous improvement and the presentation of relevant information in a very visual way, through a chart or diagram made up of three columns that refer to pending, in-process and completed tasks. All members of the work team have access to this diagram, with the aim of facilitating the flow of activities and promoting the productivity and efficiency of the work team.

Extreme Programming (XP)

The main objective of this agile methodology is to guarantee impeccable results in software development. To do this, it focuses special attention on strengthening, developing and stabilizing the interpersonal relationships of the work team, promoting active participation of the members to achieve continuous improvement.

In XP, people play a fundamental role in ensuring the success of a software project. In addition, it promotes the existence of communication and interaction between the client and the members of the work team. In this case, it is the client who makes the decision as to which actions they want to be carried out in the first place, so the team members will have the ability to know where to start the development of the project.

Analyze All Your Options with a Comparative Analysis.

Before choosing the best software development methodology, it's important to compare and analyze. Doing so helps make sure you are choosing the right approach for your project’s individual requirements. This can be done by considering factors such as the cost, timeline, capabilities and objectives of each method. Even if you’re certain that one specific approach is right for your project, don’t rush into choosing it without evaluating other options first – after all, taking a comparison analysis step can lead to more informed decisions and more successful outcomes!

In conclusion, in order to select the right software development methodology, it’s important to understand the different life cycle models. These refer to the distinct phases that a project passes through during its development – beginning with project planning and ending with product deployment. This includes various processes such as requirement analysis, design, coding and testing, installation, and maintenance. An understanding of these life cycles helps to determine which approach is best suited to a particular software project’s individual requirements.

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• IT methodologies
• Introduction to IT methodologies

Agile. Lean. DevOps. These methodologies, once rooted in software development, have now entered the general lexicon in most workplaces. Product, support, and even marketing teams rely on tenets of these methodologies to iterate faster and deliver better customer experiences .

As a member of an IT team , you may find that your organization relies on different methodologies for distinct types of work. Some of these methods are hotly debated — but each has its place depending on the organization you are part of or the type of project you are working on.

At a basic level, methodologies help you structure your work. You are able to take a unified approach so everyone knows what the expectations are for planning new projects and completing tasks. When you are aligned around a consistent set of practices, you can focus on solving the technical problems rather than managing workflow chaos.

The methodology that you use is typically selected by a chief technology officer (CTO) or another company executive. Depending on your role, you may be able to influence key phases within a given method — such as the testing, deployment, or maintenance phases. When you understand the core principles of the methods, you can better evaluate when one may be more suitable than the next.

Common IT methodologies

Some methodologies are unique to a functional area in IT, while others are used across the IT department. This table includes some of the most common methodologies used by development, IT operations, and project-based teams.

If you are part of an enterprise architecture team, you may be familiar with another set of methodologies. These are the four most common enterprise architecture frameworks:

Your workflows and processes will be impacted by other factors as well, such as suppliers, expectations for uptime and usability, and governing bodies. You need to select a methodology that allows you to build and support the technologies that deliver a great customer experience.

Keeping operations running smoothly is critical as well. Most companies need to purchase supplies and services from outside vendors. So you need a framework in place for measuring and reporting on inventory.

IT teams help employees do their jobs — by providing tools, automating manual tasks, and supporting the infrastructure employees depend on. The methodology that you choose for internal projects should improve employee productivity and help keep people happy at work.

Finally, compliance requirements set by the government, client contracts, and other third parties can also impact how IT teams work. You want to provide adequate checks and balances — saving you time and effort and reducing potential errors.

Which IT methodology is appropriate for your organization?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach for IT teams — the best methodology for your organization will depend on company structure, maturity, goals, project type, timelines, and skillsets.

Think of the methodology you choose as a framework for how a specific type of work can be completed — with a set of proven techniques that can help you stay in lockstep with your teammates. The right methodology will help you solve problems and support customers.

Best practices are best supported with the right tools. IT roadmapping software can help you manage projects, releases, and changes. Get started with Aha! Roadmaps — free for 30 days.

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Software development refers to a set of computer science activities that are dedicated to the process of creating, designing, deploying, and supporting software.

Software itself is the set of instructions or programs that tell a computer what to do. It is independent of hardware and makes computers programmable. There are three basic types:

System software to provide core functions such as operating systems, disk management, utilities, hardware management and other operational necessities.

Programming software to give programmers tools such as text editors, compilers, linkers, debuggers, and other tools to create code.

Application software (applications or apps) to help users perform tasks. Office productivity suites, data management software, media players and security programs are examples. Applications also refer to web and mobile applications like those used to shop on Amazon.com, socialize with Facebook or post pictures to Instagram. 1

A possible fourth type is embedded software . Embedded systems software is used to control machines and devices not typically considered computers — telecommunications networks, cars, industrial robots and more. These devices, and their software, can be connected as part of the Internet of Things (IoT). 2

Software development is primarily conducted by programmers, software engineers and software developers. These roles interact and overlap, and the dynamics between them vary greatly across development departments and communities.  

Programmers, or coders , write source code to program computers for specific tasks like merging databases, processing online orders, routing communications, conducting searches, or displaying text and graphics. Programmers typically interpret instructions from software developers and engineers and use programming languages like C++ or Java to carry them out.

Software engineers apply engineering principles to build software and systems to solve problems. They use modeling language and other tools to devise solutions that can often be applied to problems in a general way, as opposed to merely solving for a specific instance or client. Software engineering solutions adhere to the scientific method and must work in the real world, as with bridges or elevators. Their responsibility has grown as products have become increasingly intelligent with the addition of microprocessors, sensors, and software. Not only are more products relying on software for market differentiation, but their software development must be coordinated with the product’s mechanical and electrical development work.

Software developers have a less formal role than engineers and can be closely involved with specific project areas — including writing code. At the same time, they drive the overall software development lifecycle — including working across functional teams to transform requirements into features, manage development teams and processes, and conduct software testing and maintenance. 3

The work of software development isn’t confined to coders or development teams. Professionals such as scientists, device fabricators and hardware makers also create software code even though they are not primarily software developers. Nor is it confined to traditional information technology industries such as software or semiconductor businesses. In fact, according to the Brookings Institute (link resides outside ibm.com), those businesses “account for less than half of the companies performing software development.”

An important distinction is custom software development as opposed to commercial software development. Custom software development is the process of designing, creating, deploying, and maintaining software for a specific set of users, functions, or organizations. In contrast, commercial off-the-shelf software (COTS) is designed for a broad set of requirements, allowing it to be packaged and commercially marketed and distributed.

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Developing software typically involves the following steps:

• Selecting a methodology to establish a framework in which the steps of software development are applied. It describes an overall work process or roadmap for the project. Methodologies can include Agile development, DevOps, Rapid Application Development (RAD), Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), Waterfall, and others.
• Gathering requirements to understand and document what is required by users and other stakeholders.
• Choosing or building an architecture as the underlying structure within which the software will operate.
• Developing a design around solutions to the problems presented by requirements, often involving process models and storyboards.
• Building a model with a modeling tool that uses a modeling language like SysML or UML to conduct early validation, prototyping, and simulation of the design.
• Constructing code in the appropriate programming language. Involves peer and team review to eliminate problems early and produce quality software faster.
• Testing with pre-planned scenarios as part of software design and coding — and conducting performance testing to simulate load testing on the application.
• Managing configuration and defects to understand all the software artifacts (requirements, design, code, test) and build distinct versions of the software. Establish quality assurance priorities and release criteria to address and track defects.
• Deploying the software for use and responding to and resolving user problems.
• Migrating data to the new or updated software from existing applications or data sources if necessary.
• Managing and measuring the projec t to maintain quality and delivery over the application lifecycle, and to evaluate the development process with models such as the Capability Maturity Model (CMM).

The steps of the software development process fit into application lifecycle management (ALM). The IBM® Engineering Management solution is a superset of ALM that enables the management of parallel mechanical, electrical, and software development.

• Requirements analysis and specification
• Design and development
• Maintenance and support

Software development process steps can be grouped into the phases of the lifecycle, but the importance of the lifecycle is that it recycles to enable continuous improvement. For example, user issues that surface in the maintenance and support phase can become requirements at the beginning of the next cycle.

Software development is also important because it is pervasive. As IBM vice president and blogger Dibbe Edwards points out: “Software has emerged as a key differentiator in many products — from cars to washing machines to thermostats — with a growing Internet of Things connecting them.”

A few examples:

• Soul Machines (link resides outside ibm.com) uses software to create artificial online advisors that improve customer service and efficiency. The advisors have human faces, expressions and voices that react intelligently, empathetically, and efficiently to customer questions and needs. They can answer over 40 percent of customer inquiries without human intervention — and they learn from their interactions to improve over time. Using IBM Watson Assistant to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into the development process, Soul Machines can create and roll out an artificial advisor in about 8 to 12 weeks.
• “This is a race,” says Erik Bak-Mikkelsen. “We have to keep up with what’s happening in the market.” Bak-Mikkelsen is head of cloud operations at car2go (link resides outside ibm.com). He understands that delivering new features and functions to car2go’s ride-sharing apps and vehicles is key to getting and staying ahead. To do so, car2go moved its development operations to a managed-services cloud and adopted a DevOps development model. The result is accelerated development cycles, faster time to market and the capability to scale for future growth.
• Working with electrical power lines can be deadly. To stay safe engineers set electrical “lockouts” using physical tags and padlocks to divert power from work locations. French energy company Enedis (link resides outside ibm.com) worked with IBM Garage for Cloud to develop software that instruments these locks and tags and ties them into a shared network. Tags and locks detect each time that they are removed from an engineer’s van and communicate the time and geo-location. As the engineer attaches the locks, their location is recorded on a digital map. All stakeholders share a view of the map to ensure safety, reduce downtime and facilitate repairs. The IBM Cloud Garage collaborative development approach enabled Enedis to develop field-ready prototypes in three months.

Using software development to differentiate brands and gain competitive advantage requires proficiency with the techniques and technologies that can accelerate software deployment, quality and efficacy.

• Artificial intelligence (AI):  AI enables software to emulate human decision-making and learning. Neural networks, machine learning, natural language processing and cognitive capabilities present developers and businesses with the opportunity to offer products and services that disrupt marketplaces and leap ahead of the competition. IBM Watson offers developers a way to connect with and use artificial intelligence services as part of their applications through application programming interfaces or APIs . You can also use IBM Watson to improve your product requirements by checking for ambiguity, unclear actors, compound or negative requirements, missing units or tolerances, incomplete requirements, and unspecific quantities.
• Cloud-native development: Cloud-native development is a way of building applications to use cloud environments. A cloud-native application consists of discrete, reusable components that are known as microservices that are designed to integrate into any cloud environment. These microservices act as building blocks and are often packaged in containers . Because of this architecture, cloud-native applications can use cloud environments to improve application performance, flexibility, and extensibility .
• Cloud-based development: Just as IT organizations look to the cloud to improve resource management and cut costs, so do software development organizations. In this way, the cloud can be used as a fast, flexible, and cost-efficient integrated development environment (IDE) or development Platform as a Service (PaaS) . Cloud-based development environments can support coding, design, integration, testing, and other development functions. They can also offer access to APIs, microservices, DevOps and other development tools, services and expertise. 
• Blockchain:  Blockchain is a secure, digitally linked ledger that eliminates cost and vulnerability that is introduced by parties like banks, regulatory bodies and other intermediaries. It is transforming businesses by freeing capital, accelerating processes, lowering transaction costs and more.  Blockchain presents a tremendous opportunity for software development. Developers are working with distributed ledgers and open source Hyperledger (link resides outside ibm.com) technology to change how businesses operate.
• Low code:  Forrester defines low code as: “Products and/or cloud services for application development that employ visual, declarative techniques instead of programming and are available to customers at low- or no-cost in money and training ...”  4 In short, it’s a development practice that reduces the need for coding and enables noncoders or citizen developers to build or help build applications quickly and at lower cost.
• Analytics: Annual demand for data scientists, data developers, and data engineers will reach nearly 700,000 openings by 2020 . The demand signifies how critical it is for companies to gain insight and value from the explosion of data. Accordingly, software developers are integrating advanced analytics capabilities into their applications. Cloud-based services and APIs make it simpler to guide data exploration, automate predictive analytics and create dashboards that deliver new insights and improve decision making.
• Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) : In MBSE, software modeling languages are used to perform early prototyping, simulation, and analysis of software designs for early validation. Building designs in MBSE helps you to analyze and elaborate project requirements and move rapidly from design to implementation.  
• Mobile: A key capability for software developers is creating mobile apps with deep connections to data that enriches and elevates user experiences. Forrester has found that “deeply integrating digital/mobile customer data has a strong effect on how customers interact with brands.”
• Agile development breaks requirements into consumable functions and delivers rapidly on those functions through incremental development. A feedback loop helps find and fix defects as functionality continues to deploy.
• Capability Maturity Model (CMM) assesses the proficiency of software development processes. It tracks progress from ad hoc actions to defined steps to measured results and optimized processes.
• DevOps, a combination of development and operations, is an agile-based approach that brings software development and IT operations together in the design, development, deployment, and support of software.
• Rapid application development (RAD) is a nonlinear approach that condenses design and code construction into one interconnected step.
• Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) provides a way to scale agile methodology to a larger software development team or organization.
• Waterfall, often considered the traditional software development methodology, is a set of cascading linear steps from planning and requirements gathering through deployment and maintenance.

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1  Software, Techopedia (link resides outside ibm.com)

2  Embedded software, Wikipedia (link resides outside ibm.com)

3  Software Engineer vs. Software Developer – What’s the Difference? Fullstack Academy (link resides outside ibm.com)

4  The Forrester Wave™: Low-Code development Platforms for AD&D Pros, Q4 201 John R. Rymer, Forrester Research, Inc. 23 October, 2017 (link resides outside ibm.com)

Software Development Methodologies: Analysis and Classification

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