In the starting phases of software development, organizations managed their processes manually owing to how simple everything was. But with the advancement of technology and enhancement of software systems, they became bigger and could not be handled single-handedly as teams were needed. As a matter of fact, in order to generate the millions of lines of code today necessary to sustain the elaborate structures we utilize, these joint efforts are required.
The software development life cycle (SDLC) is a clearly defined processes for the various procedures which are designed to deliver high quality systems, have effective management control of the projects, and obtain the optimal utilization of the systems staff. It is a continuous process that provides a framework for the development of information systems from the first possible investigation of the need to analysis, design, construction and all the way maintenance. With the aim of understanding the SDLC, a number of models and methodologies, with sequential steps or stages have been developed to steer the progress of the SDLC.
The prime objective of the SDLC is to make sure that quality systems are delivered. That means proper processes and practices in adopting rigorous software development to satisfy customer expectations or even outperform them. This can only be achieved through adherence to industry best practices, quality assurance procedures, and proper methods of testing.
Providing sound management controls over projects is another important objective of SDLC. This includes clear definition of project goals, clearer roles and responsibilities, realistic project planning, and active project tracking and monitoring systems. Organizations can ensure that projects are executed at the right time within budget and to the expected quality standards by compelling sound principles of project management.
Maximization of productivity of the system staff is the other significant objective of SDLC. As the process of software development requires interaction among a number of stakeholders, the process needs to be streamlined and applied in a manner that supports team collaboration. Smooth methodologies, use of right tools and technologies, and proper work environment help achieve organizational goals like better productivity, fewer errors, effective communication, and coordination between the stakeholders.
The SDLC has different stages or phases that carry out specific purposes in the software development process. Though the number and sequence of the stages may vary according to the chosen model or methodology, common phases include:
1. Requirements Gathering
Requirements Gathering In this phase the development team works along with stakeholders so as to elicit and document system requirements. The processes involved in this stage include end-user needs identification, definition of what the functions and non-functions are, and what scope is within the project range.
2. Analysis And Design
Analysis and Design After requirements gathering, the development team proceeds to do the analysis regarding how it would approach designing the system best. The phase involves developing models for the system, elaboration of data structures, and the design of the software architecture. Its main goal is the conversion of these requirements into a good structural design, which will drive its implementation phase.
3. Implementation
In the implementation phase, the designed will be translated into actual codes. The programmers will, therefore, compile and then integrate the created modules as code into forming the functioning software system. Coding properly, following codes’ guidelines, and usage of some mechanisms for keeping versions ensure the quality as well as maintainability during this development phase.
4. Testing
The crucial phase of testing examines functionality, reliability, and the performance of the software system. It involves the process of designing test cases along with the execution of the test cases. Moreover, it also involves identification of defects and their rectification. Testing mainly involves unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and user acceptance testing. Proper testing identifies defects earlier in the development cycle; it reduces the project’s risk and the overall cost of the project.
5. Deployment and Maintenance
Once the testing phase is cleared, the software is deployed to the production environment. Installation of the software is involved along with necessary hardware and software configuration. All this is done in such a way that it blends well with the other existing systems. After the deployment, maintenance and support activities are carried out on a continuous basis to deal with problems, implement improvements, and ensure that the system continues to run and operate.
