METHODS USED IN SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

A process where an idea is conceived, designed, programmed and fixed for bugs in order to create an application or other software components is known as software programming. As the name suggests, it’s a methodology which is used in software engineering to plan, create and structure and control the process of an information system. The 10 most prominent ways to develop software are:

Waterfall Model:

• This method clarifies the process in linear steps.
• Due to the rigidity of this model, it is easier to manage, simple to understand.
• The specified sequence helps the user to understand that the further level is made progressive after the completion of the previous one.
• It is easy in testing and analysis but it is not applicable for maintenance projects as it matches only precise needs.
• This model is only used when very precise up-front requirements are available.

2. Prototype Methodology:

• In this method, the developer develops a sample or a prototype and checks its progress by letting the customer check its functional essence.
• After approval from the customer, the final solution is created.
• This method leads to a clear understanding and complete observation of the functionality of the software.
• Due to its flexibility for changes, too many modifications are never good for the project as it disturbs the workflow of the development team.

3. Agile:

• In simple words, it develops software in a packet of information or timeboxes, called iterations, which last from one to four weeks.
• Every iteration is mini software in its own and includes all the necessary steps like coding, designing, testing, analysis.
• At the end of each iteration, one can perform the re-evaluate the project requirements and progress.
• Real-time communication between the client and the developer leaves no space for any ambiguity in the flow of development.
• The software can be modified with the change in requirement.
• Less documentation as it is purely based on working software.
• The customer needs to be thoroughly clear about this desired outcome from the software. Otherwise, the project may go off track.

4. Rapid Application Development:

• In this method, the development is process is made faster with the help of other software development methodologies.
• Hence, it reduces the risks and required the effort of one single developer.
• It also encourages customer feedback for any improvement and also the client can get quick revies of the project.
• This technology makes the goal easily achievable as it allows the active participation of the user.
• This is not suitable for small budget projects.

5. Extreme Programming Methodology:

• Popularly known as XP Technology, this methodology is a derivative of agile software engineering methodology.
• It emphasizes customer involvement. The more involvement, the more effective it is.
• But the cost of changing the requirements on later stages of the project can be very high.
• It establishes rational plans and schedules which get the developed personally committed to their schedules.
• This method requires an enormous meeting with the customer.
• Also, the exact estimate of the work effort is uncertain at the beginning of the project.

6. Feature Driven Development:

• It is an iterative software development methodology used by a large number of teams working on a project using object-oriented technology.
• This method is used where the top software development companies are passing on from a phase-based method to an iterative approach.
• It can obtain repeatable success and can be used for large size projects.
• The customer doesn’t get any documents from the developer which makes the software without any proof.

7. Joint Application Development Methodology:

• Popularly known as JAD technology, it is a requirements-definition and user-interface development methodology in the developer, end user, and the customer attends off-site meetings before finalizing the software system.
• This is accomplished through various JAD sessions which is a series of collaborative workshops. This method allows the gathering and consolidating of a large amount of information simultaneously in a short period of time. Using this technology, differences are resolved immediately with the assistance of the organizer.
• It requires a commitment of investor in terms of time and effort. Trained and experienced personnel are required to implement the entire project.

8. Lean Development Technology:

• This methodology focuses on the creation of easily changeable software.
• It is much more focused than any of the agile software development methodology.
• It eliminated the overall efficiency of the development process that speeds up the process of entire software development. The product is delivered early which is a definitive advantage.
• The disadvantage is it requires a competent business analyst who should be able to understand the documentation thoroughly.

9. Rational Unified Process Methodology:

• Also known as RUP, this modern software development method divides the process into four phases of which are inception, elaboration, construction, and transition.
• Each phase involves business modeling, analysis, and design, implementation, testing, and deployment.
• This methodology is web-enabled and object-oriented methodology.
• It emphasizes accurate documentation. It also helps the developer to provide the guidelines, templates or examples for every aspect of the development process.
• The developer has to be very professional and competent as integration throughout the process of software development adds more issues and confusions during the stage of testing.

10. Scrum Development Technology:

• This technology is suitable for nearly any dynamic projects that are rapidly changing or highly emergent requirement.
• It starts with brief planning, meeting, and conclusions with a final review.
• It is used for speedy development of software which includes a series of iterations to create required software.
• It emphasizes frequent updating of the process which makes the project steps visible.

Conclusion

Everyone is taking the help of computers, the internet to excel in their individual streams. Depending on the budget, the developer can choose any method to develop any software. The only thing that matters in software development is the competency of the team and its members. Also, it helps if the customer is clear in his thoughts about his requirements. This helps the developer to understand the project in the beginning and take a suitable approach. A professional software development company should be ready to take on any kind of project and should be ready to face challenges given by the clients. Continuous training of the team with courses like PMI ACP certification adds to the credibility of the company and helps the members to become a pioneer in their field.