Generally, well-managed projects are successful. For efficient project management, the project manager/ development team chooses the software development methodology that will work best for the project. Each method has different strengths and weaknesses and exists for various reasons.
Continue to read this blog to find out which software development methodology works best for you. This blog discusses the most commonly used software development methodologies and why different methodologies exist.
Software Development Methodology here is a brief explanation;
It refers to structured processes involved while working on a project. It is a mix of different design philosophies and realistic pragmatism, which stretches back to the initial days of computing. The aim is to provide a systematic approach to software development.
Most IT companies agree that employing a software development methodology is crucial. However, the subject, which method is the best, is a question that requires an answer. That’s because there isn’t one. Each methodology has its pros and cons.
Agile development methodology
When adding new functionality, teams use the agile development methodology to minimize risks (such as bugs, cost overruns, and changing requirements). In agile, tasks are broken into short sprints, which take about 1 to 4 weeks to complete. It’s a self-explanatory model that involves multiple checks and tests as software development progresses. The Developers continuously seek customer feedback and make desired changes to the software. Communication is the priority in Agile, particularly between developers, customers, and users.
DevOps deployment methodology
DevOps is not just a methodology to develop but also a set of practices that supports an organization’s culture. In organizational change, DevOps deployment centers enhance collaboration between the departments responsible for different development life cycle segments, such as development, quality assurance, and operations.
Initially, DevOps can mean a commitment from the development and IT operations teams to understand the concerns and technological boundaries at each stage of the software development project. All parties agree upon KPIs to improve, such as a shorter cycle of time or lesser bugs in production. To lay the groundwork for continuous processes by communicating across job roles.
Waterfall development method
The waterfall development methodology is easily understood, making it popular for teams with less experience in designing. Every stage must be completed before moving to the next stage. Many consider the waterfall method the most traditional software development method. Since each phase must be 100% complete before starting the next phase, there’s usually no need to go back to modify the project or direction.
Rapid application development
Rapid application development (RAD) is a condensed process that produces a high-quality system with low investment costs. The fast application development method contains four phases: requirements planning, user design, construction, and cutover. The user design and construction phases repeat until the user confirms that the product meets all requirements. Its focus is on getting products built in a much shorter time frame without compromising the quality.
Rigorous testing during the prototype phase results in valuable feedback, which helps to eliminate much of the product risk. Using RAD enhances the chances of successful product release within the stipulated timeline. RAD often uses development tools that could automate and simplify the development process.
Which software development methodology should I use?
These four software development methodologies are the most pervasive in software development. Every methodology has its own strengths and weaknesses and works effectively in different situations. When choosing your development methodology, think about combining the elements of each method that work best for your team and your current project.