The right way to design software can depend on the particular scope of the project, the time frame, and the purpose of the software. Several methodologies can help delineate the steps necessary to develop, test, and launch software. In fact, there are seven known methodologies for the software development process.
Choosing the right methodology for the project can streamline the entire process while also helping to avoid a variety of pitfalls, such as going over budget or a deadline. So, let’s explore the seven methodologies for custom software development, their strengths and weaknesses, and the process of choosing one for a project.
Choosing a Methodology as a Software Developer: The 7 Methodologies
1. Waterfall
One of the more traditional software development methods is called Waterfall. Essentially what this means is to complete the task one is on before moving on to the next. Each step flows into the next and development does not move backwards to address changes.
Waterfall is great for a procedural and analytical development process, but it needs precise requirements and software cannot be tested until it is in the final stage.
2. Agile
Agile development is another popular software development methodology. This procedure is based more on how development evolves while remaining flexible and adaptive to potential change. Agile is an excellent method for rapidly changing requirements, but fast development and lack of documentation can lead to potential issues.
3. DevOps
DevOps emphasizes focus on the automation of the development process. The DevOps cycle has seven steps within itself, which are:
1. Continuous development
2. Continuous integration
3. Continuous testing
4. Continuous monitoring
5. Continuous feedback
6. Continuous deployment
7. Continuous operations
DevOps is a good choice for creating uniform solutions and getting projects to market quickly, but it often prioritizes speed, which can lead to compatibility or security issues.
4. Scrum
Scrum takes a multi-faceted approach to development to address rapid requirement changes. It involves brief planning with daily meetings to review progress and then multiple iterations throughout the project. This helps keep slower projects on track and saves time in outlining requirements early on. However, it requires an experienced team and is not great for long-term projects.
5. Lean Development
Lean development is an excellent method for projects needing a faster turnaround on a limited budget. It involves creating a conceptual framework for base rules and focusing primarily on what the customer wants. Lean development is the best for rapid projects with limited budgets but requires skilled developers to pull off. Moreover, too much change or adaptation can lead to deadline issues.
6. Feature-Driven Development
Feature-driven development is more suitable when working with a larger team. The process begins with the development of an initial model and then incrementally builds new features into the project based on client priority. Overall, feature-driven development is most suited for complex projects with scalability, but it is a complex process and not feasible for small projects.
7. Rapid Application Development (RAD)
The name Rapid Application Development pretty much sums up the process of this methodology. Teams will quickly create functional prototypes that can be reviewed for feedback. This process will involve multiple iterations and is a good method for a faster turnaround.
Of course, the main benefit of RAD is a fast product turnaround, but this means it needs skilled developers to achieve the product and the end software may not be highly scalable.
Graphem Solutions: A Software Development Company for All Your Needs
If you are looking for a software development company that can bring your project idea to life, then we are here to help. Graphem Solutions is home to a team of skilled developers that can build out custom software of any type. To learn more about our software development services, you can reach us online or call us at 1-800-590-0175.
