Software development life cycle (SDLC) is not a new concept. We all use software development methodologies to streamline the process and remove the hassles faced during the development. It is an extremely useful way of building and managing projects as well as providing stability and predictability in the process. These SDLC methodologies help developers understand how to build the software more effectively while increasing their productivity.
Some of these methodologies used in custom software development Chicago are –
- Waterfall
- Spiral
- Hybrid and
- Agile.
Each of them has its unique benefits and purposes but all of them have one factor in common – ‘They all follow an iterative process with multiple iterations’. This helps developers in making changes at a later time with greater efficiency.
If you’re wondering which software development methodology would be the right fit for your custom software development, then this blog is a perfect read for you.
In this article, we will discuss all 4 types of SDLC models and their strengths and weaknesses. This will help you in deciding which one would be right for you.
How to Choose the Best SDLC Model for A Streamlined Custom Software Development?
#1. The Waterfall Model
This is the most traditional software development model. It’s exactly as its name implies. This model consists of sequential phases –
- Phase 1 – Requirement Gathering
- Phase 2 – Designing
- Phase 3 – Development
- Phase 4 – Testing & Improvement
- Phase 5 – Deployment
One disadvantage of this model is that if something goes wrong, it’s difficult to make changes on time. If your project is large, it can take even longer. Here’s a deeper look into the model –
Advantages
- Easy to use and implement
- Instant tracking of potential problems
- Best fit for small projects
- Time-saving.
Disadvantages
- No support for iterations
- No early prototype would be available
- Hard to make adjustments.
#2. The Spiral Model
It is the most flexible methodology used in custom software development. It’s divided into small phases that are very much similar to the Waterfall model such as –
- Phase 1 – Ideation and Strategy Mapping
- Phase 2 – Defining Goal and Scope
- Phase 3 – Design & Development
- Phase 4 – Testing
- Phase 5 – Deployment
This methodology helps ensure that quality remains high throughout all the stages of the development process. Let’s dig deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of the model –
Advantages
- Estimate new changes later in the development process
- Cost estimation is easier
- Higher quality
- Faster involvement of the team and users.
Disadvantages
- High risk of management due to the lengthy process
- Costly and time-consuming
- Best for complicated projects but with small functionality or strict budgets.
#3. The Hybrid Model
It’s the perfect blend of waterfall and spiral models which means it’s both iterative and incremental. This model is best suited for businesses that require multiple phases of their custom software development project.
With many advantages, the model also consists of some drawbacks. Let’s check it out!
Advantages
- Fast and flexible in design
- Gives stability
- Time and cost-saving
- Risk tolerant.
Disadvantages
- Hard to stay on track with deadlines
- Unpredictable changes
- Time-consuming at some points.
#4. The Agile Model
This custom software development model is based on an iterative process with multiple iterations. All tasks in this methodology are divided into small time frames to prepare needed functionality. The final product will contain all the required features as mentioned by the client.
Advantages
- Greater flexibility to promote the development of small chunks
- Effective iterations
- Highly adaptive to varying needs of the project
- Easy identification of issues and bugs
- Instant marketing
- Better communication and collaboration between owners and users.
Disadvantages
- Hard to predict the outcome
- Due to a lack of documentation, the process becomes more complex
- High-risk probability when clients are not clear with their requirements.
The agile methodology used in custom software development is designed for almost any type of project. Moreover, if you need some functionality to be finished faster, Agile is the best fit.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SDLC methodology for your custom software development project requires careful thought. But also remember that assembling a skilled team of dedicated software professionals is equally important.
If you’re outsourcing to some custom software development company, it’s good to look for the one with relevant experience and an impressive work record. Cloudester could be your perfect choice. Let’s find out more here! (link to services or homepage)
