Standard software development methodologies

The optimal organization of the workflow directly affects the quality of the result. Without the right strategy, it is difficult to achieve success and sustainable stability. The leaders of the working team choose the best variant of the methodology based on the features and complexities of the project. The dedicated software development teams are of great importance.

A software development methodology is a procedure for completing a given business task. The software product development system is chosen based on the subject of the project, scale, deadlines and specialization of the team.

Differences in methods are based on how the work cycles will be organized, in what sequence the task will be performed, and how “hard” each next stage will be connected with the previous one.

Traditionally, software development includes several stages:

• Analysis of the competitive environment. Research of consumer preferences, market features, specific promotion conditions.
• Definition of strategy. Budgeting and evaluating the capabilities of the team.
• Technical implementation. Fulfillment of the conditions of the task and development of the product according to the requirements of the customer.
• Testing. Launching the finished product in a real software environment to identify bugs and weaknesses.
• Deployment. Preparation of technical documentation, instructions and product descriptions for further placement on software sites.
• Promotion. A set of measures to release a product to the mass market.
•     Technical support. Creation of an objective community for high-quality information support of the product.

The logical chain of these stages, alternation and relationship may vary depending on the chosen development methodology. You can learn more about this here: https://digitalsuits.co/blog/outsourcing-software-development-pros-and-cons/.

Waterfall

This model belongs to the classics and boasts a rich history. The essence of the technique is very simple – each stage of the workflow is performed in a pre-agreed sequence. At the same time, a new stage of development can only be started when the previous one is completed. The advantage of the methodology is that after the full implementation of each stage, an objective assessment of the quality can be made.

It is also worth noting that with a logical sequence, it is easier to stick to deadlines. The conditional disadvantages of the method include low flexibility, which does not always save the budget.

Agile

In this model, the work cycle is distributed in one unit of time and each stage is performed in parallel with the other. At the same time, in the timeline, the work is divided into sprints (time intervals), during which a certain part of the work for each stage must be completed. The peculiarity of the approach lies in the construction of communications. Team members meet every day, and at the meetings they discuss intermediate results and plans for the future.

The technique is relevant for projects with a large life cycle and long implementation periods. Also, the methodology is suitable for projects at the testing stage, when it is possible to calculate the potential of the product only in real conditions of use.

Scrum

This model also implies the simultaneous execution of agreed stages with the division of the task into time intervals. Among the features, one can note the work of a Scrum specialist. The task of the expert is motivational support, organization, formation of corporate culture.

The technique is suitable for small projects where you need to complete the work in a short time and with a minimum budget. In this organization, it is easier to make changes in the course of work and coordinate team members as they progress. Flexibility and room for maneuver have a positive effect on project manageability. But in the face of constant change, it is difficult to predict the quality of the final result.

Kanban

The workflow is distinguished by its emphasis on visualizing the software product development cycle. Each stage of the life cycle is performed individually. At the same time, each task necessarily goes through the established development chain: concept, development, deployment and testing. This system allows you to visually demonstrate the organizational structure and stages of promotion.