Software development processes are approached
differently by different IT Solutions companies across the world. But, what
matter the systematic approach and also the understanding of the trends of the
market. These two aspects need to go in tandem with each other.
A Model for Software Development Process is not
new to Software Engineers. But the resources i.e. the tools and techniques for
these processes have definitely added to the efficiency of following these
models of software development.
The Three Models of Software Development Process
The Waterfall Method
It originates in the manufacturing and
construction companies for very structured physical environments which can
indirectly affect the hardware oriented model which was adapted for software
development. Software Developmentexperts prefer using this methodology for medium or large sized software
development projects.
The waterfall method is sequential design
process used for software development processes. It goes in progressive fashion
but only downwards like a waterfall through the different phases of
requirements, design, implementation, test and delivery. Waterfall method
offers a model that is comparatively lower in risk and it runs in linear flow.
The very initial phase is about eliciting and collecting the requirements to be
able to conceptualize the solution. In this process, the users and stakeholders
document, validate and approve of a set of functional performance and other
such requirements. There are many phases in the waterfall model which are
formally documented. This model is application to businesses that are static.
But while before selecting this model, you need
to ensure that the end user’s environment is stable, the risk and cost are associated
along with aspects like schedule, security which many may be the small but
important requirement in the requirements document. This model offers a
practical approach for dealing with clients and acts in interest of faster
approvals.
The Spiral Method
Known as the risk driven process model for
software development projects, it is based on unique risk patterns. The spiral
model helps the software engineers to adopt the elements of one or more
development process and thus makes software development much more comprehensive
and prepared for evolutionary prototyping.
The spiral model will be able to reduce the
project risk initially and also request capability faster. In many projects,
the requirements may be partially known and then rest will be known while the
project evolves. In this case, the project can begin with this model as the
remaining requirements will be known as the project proceeds. The cycle in the
model follow the similar process as the waterfall model but it can also
generate a usable prototype. The work starts with CONOPS and life cycle
planning where the successive loops include high level requirements, software
requirements, design and development, testing etc.
The model signifies a cycle a progressive model
where the software works outwards. The software
development specialist can collect the data of the requirements at the
beginning and update the model after completion of every cycle. Also, the
stakeholders can analyze the risks and accordingly create strategies for
reducing the factor of risk. With this model, the project can be ended anytime
as and when the client suggests that the requirements are met with and can be
solution can be made operational without any hurdles.
The Agile Model
Among the most popular methods for software
development is Agile Model. This model is used to develop a system for
iterations that rance 2-4 weeks. The model uses stories as the planned inputs
to sprints. Basically, Agile requirements can be written down in non technical
stories. This model avails better comprehension of the solution for the
technical and the non technical personals.
The documenting in this process focuses on what
has been already done and give a foresight on what can be done. The
documentation needs to the meet the three pointers of the criteria:
·
Essential (minimalism)
·
Valuable (needs)
·
Timely (stipulated time)
The development efforts are required on the
small and very specific capabilities. The good practices of agile projects are
short cycles, collaboration with partners, tight team work and streamlined
communication among the software development experts. Agile environment
provides support whenever required. You can expect your solution requirements
to evolve with the help of functional specifications, meeting minutes, test
cases, calculating metrics and also the progress reports. For cost effective
software solutions build with Agile Methodology, Outsourcing Software Development India is a great option.
