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What are Software Development Methodologies | 15 Key Methodologies

• 5 Most Commonly used Software Development Methodologies
• Evolution of Software Development Life Cycle Methodologies
• What is an example of adaptive software development?
• Agile Software Development Methodology | Framework, Principles, and Benefits
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The main objective of Software Development companies is to provide high quality software products at low cost. Therefore, proper planning is required and proper management is required for the software development process. Thus a proper methodology is important for achieving this type of objectives by the companies and organizations. There are multiple types of Software development methodologies and in this article a detailed knowledge is provided about the Top 15 Software Development Methodologies.

Table of Content

• What is Software Development Methodology ?

Top 15 Software Development Methodology

1. agile methodology, 2. behaviour-driven development, 3. lean development, 4. scrum methodology, 5. waterfall methodology, 6. feature driven development (fdd), 7. extreme programming (xp), 8. spiral methodology, 9. rapid application development (rad), 10. prototyping methodology, 11. rational unified process methodology, 12. adaptive software development, 13. dynamic systems development model , 14. devops methodology, 15. joint application development methodology, what are software development methodologies .

Software Development Methodologies are defined as a process in which the software developers design, develop and test the new computer programs and it is also used in the betterment of the software projects. These software development methodologies follow a particular design philosophy in which it helps the software developers to align these processes and the features of the software product. With the help of these agile methodologies also simplify the tasks and improve the collaboration in the companies.

There are various types of Software Development methodologies which are used for developing better and high quality software development projects which further help the software developers to plan, develop and test the software . The top 15 Software Development Methodologies are mentioned below:

In the IT field Agile methodology is one of the most popular software engineering techniques in which various software production methodologies are related to the principles of agile. The main objective of Agile methodologies is to finish the product with collaborative efforts and the  main benefit of this methodology is that it ensures regular release of products and continuous improvement with every iteration.

Advantages of Agile Methodology

• Due to involvement of small iteration it delivers high quality of output.
• With the help of Agile methodology allows creative improvements whenever working on the software product.
• The agile methodology is popular for its minimal reliance and adaptivity on the initial documentation.

Disadvantages of Agile Methodology

• Agile methodology doesn’t consist of any deadlines.
• Agile methodology also lacks clarity and the project vision.

Agile Software Development Methodology

BDD refers to Behaviour-driven development which is a variation of agile methodology which formalizes a vision among the team members of how an app needs to be performed. BDD’s main objective is to enable the non-tech people to take active roles in the implementation of the technical functionality.

Advantage of Behaviour-Driven Development

• With the help of BDD methodology some better opportunities are provided for the collaboration between the software developers.
• Behaviour-Driven development also automates the end-user documentation which are based on the specifications.

Disadvantages of Behaviour-Driven Development

• BDD is not useful for long term projects.
• BDD methodology also requires a lot of effort and time for developing scenarios.

BDD Life Cycle

The Lean development methodology focuses on developing cost-effective and high quality softwares. The lean development workflow particularly follows a minimalist approach for deleting the extra elements like the documentation and meetings. The main objective of lean development is to make software’s which can easily accommodate the changes.

Advantages of Lean Development

• Lean methodology is effective as it is cost friendly.
• The lean development allows the team to speed the software development process and to finish more projects in short period of time.

Disadvantages of Lean Development

• Lean development lacks documentation concerning business means.

Lean Development

Scrum is one of the most popular frameworks which is based on the agile methodology which is empirical in nature and it is famous for managing projects which do not have well defined feedback from the customers.

Advantages of Scrum Methodology

• Scrum methodology helps the team members make the decisions on the main principal project.
• With the help of the scrum methodology the developers can detect the problems fastly and easily.

Disadvantages of Scrum Methodology

• Scrum is not effective for the junior team members and it is also less effective for the big project types.

Scrum Methodology

Waterfall methodology is one of traditional methods which consist of a popular classic approach and it is also a popular version of the software development lifecycle in the field of software engineering.

Advantages of Waterfall Methodology

• Waterfall methodology can easily manage small projects and has a separate review process.
• In waterfall methodology it consists of separate development stages deadlines.

Disadvantages of Waterfall Methodology

• Waterfall methodology is not applied for the projects which need modifications on the way.

Waterfall Methodology

FDD refers to Feature Driven iterative methodology but it is in the combination with object modelling and it is also beneficial for big team projects. FDD is a five step development process which helps in accelerating the software delivery easily.

Advantage of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

• Feature Driven Development supports various teams which work parallel.
• FDD covers up all the big or small projects which require some sequential updates.
• This feature driven development methodology is mainly suitable for large projects.

Disadvantage of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

• FDD provides no documentation support to the project owners.
• FDD is a complex pattern development for the junior developers.

Feature Driven Development (FDD)

XP or Extreme programming is also used to define the agile methodology whose main objective is to develop a fully functional product as it is also helpful in developing complex projects with fixed deadlines. XP is mostly suitable for developing software in unstable environments.

Advantages of Extreme Programming (XP)

• Extreme programming is cost effective and it works well with large and small teams.
• XP is also useful for risk management which overall increases the chance of success.

Disadvantages of Extreme Programming (XP)

• Extreme programming needs regular reviews and meetings between the stakeholders which leads to more time consumption.

Extreme Programming

Spiral methodology is a lifecycle model which is highly sophisticated and it functions by the early identifications and the reduction of the risks in a project. Spiral methodology makes sure that the software developers can make necessary changes in the design or in the code in the testing stage.

Advantage of Spiral Methodology

• Spiral methodology involves large risk analysis which further leads to less risks.
• The main advantage of the spiral model is that required changes can be made even in the last testing stage.

Disadvantage of Spiral Methodology

• Spiral methodology is a complete waste of resources for the projects which consists of low risks factors.

Spiral Methodology

RAD refers to Rapid Application development which is made of delivering speedy results with high quality of software and this method is particularly complemented by the participation of active users in the process of development.

Advantage of Rapid Application Development (RAD)

• The RAD model is a regular testing method which deletes the chances of drastic errors.
• RAD models tasks are completed separately and then integrated into one project.

Disadvantage of Rapid Application Development (RAD)

• RAD is not applicable and practical for the projects of low budget.

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

Prototyping methodology is a type of model where software developers initially make a prototype of the software solution and also visualize how it can run and prove its functions to the customers.

Advantage of Prototyping Methodology

• Prototyping methodology is used by the software developers who are working on a prototype and can easily scale it with the anticipation of the customer.
• Prototyping is the best way to present the software project in front of the customers or the clients.

Disadvantage of Prototyping Methodology

• In prototyping methodology regular changes in the design can slow down the workflows.

Prototype Methodology

RUP refers to Rational Unified Process which is an object oriented program development. This RUP methodology is a modern approach which functions by splitting the workflow into four parts like analysis, implementation, business modelling and deployment.

Advantages of Rational Unified Process Methodology

• RUP consists of no time frames for the integration as it is a continuous process throughout the process of development.
• Rational Unified Process is used  for managing the risks related to the change in request management.

Disadvantage of Rational Unified Process Methodology

• RUP is not beneficial for the new users as it can be used by the users having expert skills in it.

Rational Unified Process Methodology

Adaptive Software development model is a non-linear approach which helps to meet the initial objective and goals by adapting the requirements of the business. ASD assumes that every life cycle can be iterated and modified whenever another one is executed.

Advantages of Adaptive Software Development

• ASD method tools make sure that the development occurs in high quality and low maintenance products.
• For quickly changing the requirements short feedback loops provide more opportunities.

Disadvantage of Adaptive Software Development

• ASD involves regular collaboration with the users throughout the development phase which takes a lot of time.

Adaptive Software Development Methodology

Dynamic Systems development model is an easy to use methodology and its main principle is the model is a perfect software which involves end users a lot and establishes a basic understanding of system functions.

Advantages of Dynamic Systems Development Model 

• Dynamic system models are always in the budget range and timeframe.
• This dynamic system development model is easy to use with the access of end users by the software developers.

Disadvantage of Dynamic Systems Development Model 

• Dynamic systems models are only useful for businesses with one time projects or low budgets.

Dynamic System Development Methodology

DevOps methodology is used in IT operations to function together and allows the teams to collaborate from the design phase to the product release phase. DevOps also provides developing, testing and releasing software’s on short time.

Advantages of DevOps Methodology

• DevOps methodology provides regular delivery and also allows the company to make product improvements whenever it is needed.
• The simultaneous delivery of work between both the teams on the project activities accelerates the software delivery.

Disadvantage of DevOps Methodology

• DevOps production environment in the cloud results in compatibility issues.

DevOps Methodology

Joint Application Development methodology is used for the business software solutions and the design and development stages of software production involved in interactive workshops.

Advantages of Joint Application Development Methodology

• In joint application development, high quality software is developed with a low tendency of errors.
• Joint application methodology develops insights through the exchange of valuable information between the developers and users.

Disadvantage of Joint Application Development Methodology

• The joint application methodology is a time consuming method for any project development team.

Joint Application Development methodology

The Software Development methodologies are important in software development and also benefits the organizations in multiple ways by helping software developers so that they produce high quality software products and cost-effective software’s. Therefore in this article all the top 15 software development methodologies are mentioned with a detailed understanding of each methodology with their benefits.

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Introduction to Software Engineering/Process/Methodology

A software development methodology or system development methodology in software engineering is a framework that is used to structure, plan, and control the process of developing an information system.

• 1.1 As a noun
• 1.2 As a verb
• 2.1 Waterfall development
• 2.2 Prototyping
• 2.3 Incremental development
• 2.4 Spiral development
• 2.5 Rapid application development
• 2.6 Other practices
• 3.1 View model
• 3.2 Business process and data modelling
• 3.3 Computer-aided software engineering
• 3.4 Integrated development environment
• 3.5 Modeling language
• 3.6 Programming paradigm
• 3.7 Software framework
• 3.8 Software development process
• 5 References
• 6 External links

History [ edit | edit source ]

The software development methodology framework didn't emerge until the 1960s. According to Elliott (2004) the systems development life cycle (SDLC) can be considered to be the oldest formalized methodology framework for building information systems. The main idea of the SDLC has been "to pursue the development of information systems in a very deliberate, structured and methodical way, requiring each stage of the life cycle from inception of the idea to delivery of the final system, to be carried out in rigidly and sequentially". [1] within the context of the framework being applied. The main target of this methodology framework in the 1960s was "to develop large scale functional business systems in an age of large scale business conglomerates. Information systems activities revolved around heavy data processing and number crunching routines". [1]

As a noun [ edit | edit source ]

As a noun, a software development methodology is a framework that is used to structure, plan, and control the process of developing an information system - this includes the pre-definition of specific deliverables and artifacts that are created and completed by a project team to develop or maintain an application. [2]

A wide variety of such frameworks have evolved over the years, each with its own recognized strengths and weaknesses. One software development methodology framework is not necessarily suitable for use by all projects. Each of the available methodology frameworks are best suited to specific kinds of projects, based on various technical, organizational, project and team considerations. [2]

These software development frameworks are often bound to some kind of organization, which further develops, supports the use, and promotes the methodology framework. The methodology framework is often defined in some kind of formal documentation. Specific software development methodology frameworks (noun) include

• Rational Unified Process (RUP, IBM) since 1998.
• Agile Unified Process (AUP) since 2005 by Scott Ambler

As a verb [ edit | edit source ]

As a verb, the software development methodology is an approach used by organizations and project teams to apply the software development methodology framework (noun). Specific software development methodologies (verb) include:

• Structured programming since 1969
• Cap Gemini SDM, originally from PANDATA, the first English translation was published in 1974. SDM stands for System Development Methodology
• Structured Systems Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) from 1980 onwards
• Information Requirement Analysis/Soft systems methodology
• Object-oriented programming (OOP) has been developed since the early 1960s, and developed as a dominant programming approach during the mid-1990s
• Rapid application development (RAD) since 1991
• Scrum, since the late 1990s
• Team software process developed by Watts Humphrey at the SEI
• Extreme Programming since 1999

Verb approaches [ edit | edit source ]

Every software development methodology framework acts as a basis for applying specific approaches to develop and maintain software. Several software development approaches have been used since the origin of information technology. These are: [2]

• Waterfall: a linear framework
• Prototyping: an iterative framework
• Incremental: a combined linear-iterative framework
• Spiral: a combined linear-iterative framework
• Rapid application development (RAD): an iterative framework
• Extreme Programming

Waterfall development [ edit | edit source ]

The Waterfall model is a sequential development approach, in which development is seen as flowing steadily downwards (like a waterfall) through the phases of requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing (validation), integration, and maintenance. The first formal description of the method is often cited as an article published by Winston W. Royce [3] in 1970 although Royce did not use the term "waterfall" in this article.

The basic principles are: [2]

• Project is divided into sequential phases, with some overlap and splashback acceptable between phases.
• Emphasis is on planning, time schedules, target dates, budgets and implementation of an entire system at one time.
• Tight control is maintained over the life of the project via extensive written documentation, formal reviews, and approval/signoff by the user and information technology management occurring at the end of most phases before beginning the next phase.

Prototyping [ edit | edit source ]

Software prototyping, is the development approach of activities during software development, the creation of prototypes, i.e., incomplete versions of the software program being developed.

• Not a standalone, complete development methodology, but rather an approach to handling selected parts of a larger, more traditional development methodology (i.e. incremental, spiral, or rapid application development (RAD)).
• Attempts to reduce inherent project risk by breaking a project into smaller segments and providing more ease-of-change during the development process.
• User is involved throughout the development process, which increases the likelihood of user acceptance of the final implementation.
• Small-scale mock-ups of the system are developed following an iterative modification process until the prototype evolves to meet the users’ requirements.
• While most prototypes are developed with the expectation that they will be discarded, it is possible in some cases to evolve from prototype to working system.
• A basic understanding of the fundamental business problem is necessary to avoid solving the wrong problem.

Incremental development [ edit | edit source ]

Various methods are acceptable for combining linear and iterative systems development methodologies, with the primary objective of each being to reduce inherent project risk by breaking a project into smaller segments and providing more ease-of-change during the development process.

• A series of mini-Waterfalls are performed, where all phases of the Waterfall are completed for a small part of a system, before proceeding to the next increment, or
• Overall requirements are defined before proceeding to evolutionary, mini-Waterfall development of individual increments of a system, or
• The initial software concept, requirements analysis, and design of architecture and system core are defined via Waterfall, followed by iterative Prototyping, which culminates in installing the final prototype, a working system.

Spiral development [ edit | edit source ]

The spiral model is a software development process combining elements of both design and prototyping-in-stages, in an effort to combine advantages of top-down and bottom-up concepts.

• Focus is on risk assessment and on minimizing project risk by breaking a project into smaller segments and providing more ease-of-change during the development process, as well as providing the opportunity to evaluate risks and weigh consideration of project continuation throughout the life cycle.
• "Each cycle involves a progression through the same sequence of steps, for each part of the product and for each of its levels of elaboration, from an overall concept-of-operation document down to the coding of each individual program." [4]
• Each trip around the spiral traverses four basic quadrants: (1) determine objectives, alternatives, and constraints of the iteration; (2) evaluate alternatives; Identify and resolve risks; (3) develop and verify deliverables from the iteration; and (4) plan the next iteration. [4] [5]
• Begin each cycle with an identification of stakeholders and their win conditions, and end each cycle with review and commitment. [6]

Rapid application development [ edit | edit source ]

Rapid application development (RAD) is a software development methodology, which involves iterative development and the construction of prototypes. Rapid application development is a term originally used to describe a software development process introduced by James Martin in 1991.

• Key objective is for fast development and delivery of a high quality system at a relatively low investment cost.
• Aims to produce high quality systems quickly, primarily via iterative Prototyping (at any stage of development), active user involvement, and computerized development tools. These tools may include Graphical User Interface (GUI) builders, Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tools, Database Management Systems (DBMS), fourth-generation programming languages, code generators, and object-oriented techniques.
• Key emphasis is on fulfilling the business need, while technological or engineering excellence is of lesser importance.
• Project control involves prioritizing development and defining delivery deadlines or “timeboxes”. If the project starts to slip, emphasis is on reducing requirements to fit the timebox, not in increasing the deadline.
• Generally includes joint application design (JAD), where users are intensely involved in system design, via consensus building in either structured workshops, or electronically facilitated interaction.
• Active user involvement is imperative.
• Iteratively produces production software, as opposed to a throwaway prototype.
• Produces documentation necessary to facilitate future development and maintenance.
• Standard systems analysis and design methods can be fitted into this framework.

Other practices [ edit | edit source ]

Other methodology practices include:

• Object-oriented development methodologies, such as Grady Booch's object-oriented design (OOD), also known as object-oriented analysis and design (OOAD). The Booch model includes six diagrams: class, object, state transition, interaction, module, and process. [7]
• Top-down programming: evolved in the 1970s by IBM researcher Harlan Mills (and Niklaus Wirth) in developed structured programming.
• Unified Process (UP) is an iterative software development methodology framework, based on Unified Modeling Language (UML). UP organizes the development of software into four phases, each consisting of one or more executable iterations of the software at that stage of development: inception, elaboration, construction, and guidelines. Many tools and products exist to facilitate UP implementation. One of the more popular versions of UP is the Rational Unified Process (RUP).
• Agile software development refers to a group of software development methodologies based on iterative development, where requirements and solutions evolve via collaboration between self-organizing cross-functional teams. The term was coined in the year 2001 when the Agile Manifesto was formulated.
• Integrated software development refers to a deliverable based software development framework using the three primary IT (project management, software development, software testing) life cycles that can be leveraged using multiple (iterative, waterfall, spiral, agile) software development approaches, where requirements and solutions evolve via collaboration between self-organizing cross-functional teams.

Software Development Process Evolves Various Processings Hence, software development is not an easy task, it evolves various processings. According to IBM Research: “Software development refers to a set of computer science activities dedicated to the process.

Creating Designing Deploying Supporting Software

Subtopics [ edit | edit source ]

View model [ edit | edit source ].

A view model is framework which provides the viewpoints on the system and its environment, to be used in the software development process. It is a graphical representation of the underlying semantics of a view.

The purpose of viewpoints and views is to enable human engineers to comprehend very complex systems, and to organize the elements of the problem and the solution around domains of expertise. In the engineering of physically intensive systems, viewpoints often correspond to capabilities and responsibilities within the engineering organization. [8]

Most complex system specifications are so extensive that no one individual can fully comprehend all aspects of the specifications. Furthermore, we all have different interests in a given system and different reasons for examining the system's specifications. A business executive will ask different questions of a system make-up than would a system implementer. The concept of viewpoints framework, therefore, is to provide separate viewpoints into the specification of a given complex system. These viewpoints each satisfy an audience with interest in some set of aspects of the system. Associated with each viewpoint is a viewpoint language that optimizes the vocabulary and presentation for the audience of that viewpoint.

Business process and data modelling [ edit | edit source ]

Graphical representation of the current state of information provides a very effective means for presenting information to both users and system developers.

• A business model illustrates the functions associated with the business process being modeled and the organizations that perform these functions. By depicting activities and information flows, a foundation is created to visualize, define, understand, and validate the nature of a process.
• A data model provides the details of information to be stored, and is of primary use when the final product is the generation of computer software code for an application or the preparation of a functional specification to aid a computer software make-or-buy decision. See the figure on the right for an example of the interaction between business process and data models. [9]

Usually, a model is created after conducting an interview, referred to as business analysis. The interview consists of a facilitator asking a series of questions designed to extract required information that describes a process. The interviewer is called a facilitator to emphasize that it is the participants who provide the information. The facilitator should have some knowledge of the process of interest, but this is not as important as having a structured methodology by which the questions are asked of the process expert. The methodology is important because usually a team of facilitators is collecting information across the facility and the results of the information from all the interviewers must fit together once completed. [9]

The models are developed as defining either the current state of the process, in which case the final product is called the "as-is" snapshot model, or a collection of ideas of what the process should contain, resulting in a "what-can-be" model. Generation of process and data models can be used to determine if the existing processes and information systems are sound and only need minor modifications or enhancements, or if re-engineering is required as a corrective action. The creation of business models is more than a way to view or automate your information process. Analysis can be used to fundamentally reshape the way your business or organization conducts its operations. [9]

Computer-aided software engineering [ edit | edit source ]

Computer-aided software engineering (CASE), in the field software engineering is the scientific application of a set of tools and methods to a software which results in high-quality, defect-free, and maintainable software products. [10] It also refers to methods for the development of information systems together with automated tools that can be used in the software development process. [11] The term "computer-aided software engineering" (CASE) can refer to the software used for the automated development of systems software, i.e., computer code. The CASE functions include analysis, design, and programming. CASE tools automate methods for designing, documenting, and producing structured computer code in the desired programming language. [12]

Two key ideas of Computer-aided Software System Engineering (CASE) are: [13]

• Foster computer assistance in software development and or software maintenance processes, and
• An engineering approach to software development and or maintenance.

Typical CASE tools exist for configuration management, data modeling, model transformation, refactoring, source code generation, and Unified Modeling Language.

Integrated development environment [ edit | edit source ]

An integrated development environment (IDE) also known as integrated design environment or integrated debugging environment is a software application that provides comprehensive facilities to computer programmers for software development. An IDE normally consists of a:

• source code editor,
• compiler and/or interpreter,
• build automation tools, and
• debugger (usually).

IDEs are designed to maximize programmer productivity by providing tight-knit components with similar user interfaces. Typically an IDE is dedicated to a specific programming language, so as to provide a feature set which most closely matches the programming paradigms of the language.

Modeling language [ edit | edit source ]

A modeling language is any artificial language that can be used to express information or knowledge or systems in a structure that is defined by a consistent set of rules. The rules are used for interpretation of the meaning of components in the structure. A modeling language can be graphical or textual. [14] Graphical modeling languages use a diagram techniques with named symbols that represent concepts and lines that connect the symbols and that represent relationships and various other graphical annotation to represent constraints. Textual modeling languages typically use standardised keywords accompanied by parameters to make computer-interpretable expressions.

Example of graphical modelling languages in the field of software engineering are:

• Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN, and the XML form BPML) is an example of a process modeling language.
• EXPRESS and EXPRESS-G (ISO 10303-11) is an international standard general-purpose data modeling language.
• Extended Enterprise Modeling Language (EEML) is commonly used for business process modeling across layers.
• Flowchart is a schematic representation of an algorithm or a stepwise process,
• Fundamental Modeling Concepts (FMC) modeling language for software-intensive systems.
• IDEF is a family of modeling languages, the most notable of which include IDEF0 for functional modeling, IDEF1X for information modeling, and IDEF5 for modeling ontologies.
• LePUS3 is an object-oriented visual Design Description Language and a formal specification language that is suitable primarily for modelling large object-oriented (Java, C++ , C# ) programs and design patterns.
• Specification and Description Language(SDL) is a specification language targeted at the unambiguous specification and description of the behaviour of reactive and distributed systems.
• Unified Modeling Language (UML) is a general-purpose modeling language that is an industry standard for specifying software-intensive systems. UML 2.0, the current version, supports thirteen different diagram techniques, and has widespread tool support.

Not all modeling languages are executable, and for those that are, using them doesn't necessarily mean that programmers are no longer needed. On the contrary, executable modeling languages are intended to amplify the productivity of skilled programmers, so that they can address more difficult problems, such as parallel computing and distributed systems.

Programming paradigm [ edit | edit source ]

A programming paradigm is a fundamental style of computer programming, in contrast to a software engineering methodology, which is a style of solving specific software engineering problems. Paradigms differ in the concepts and abstractions used to represent the elements of a program (such as objects, functions, variables, constraints...) and the steps that compose a computation (assignation, evaluation, continuations, data flows...).

A programming language can support multiple paradigms. For example programs written in C++ or Object Pascal can be purely procedural, or purely object-oriented, or contain elements of both paradigms. Software designers and programmers decide how to use those paradigm elements. In object-oriented programming, programmers can think of a program as a collection of interacting objects, while in functional programming a program can be thought of as a sequence of stateless function evaluations. When programming computers or systems with many processors, process-oriented programming allows programmers to think about applications as sets of concurrent processes acting upon logically shared data structures.

Just as different groups in software engineering advocate different methodologies , different programming languages advocate different programming paradigms . Some languages are designed to support one paradigm (Smalltalk supports object-oriented programming, Haskell supports functional programming), while other programming languages support multiple paradigms (such as Object Pascal, C++, C#, Visual Basic, Common Lisp, Scheme, Python, Ruby, and Oz).

Many programming paradigms are as well known for what methods they forbid as for what they enable. For instance, pure functional programming forbids using side-effects; structured programming forbids using goto statements. Partly for this reason, new paradigms are often regarded as doctrinaire or overly rigid by those accustomed to earlier styles. [ citation needed ] Avoiding certain methods can make it easier to prove theorems about a program's correctness, or simply to understand its behavior.

Software framework [ edit | edit source ]

A software framework is a re-usable design for a software system or subsystem. A software framework may include support programs, code libraries, a scripting language, or other software to help develop and glue together the different components of a software project. Various parts of the framework may be exposed via an API.

Software development process [ edit | edit source ]

A software development process is a framework imposed on the development of a software product. Synonyms include software life cycle and software process . There are several models for such processes, each describing approaches to a variety of tasks or activities that take place during the process.

A largely growing body of software development organizations implement process methodologies. Many of them are in the defense industry, which in the U.S. requires a rating based on 'process models' to obtain contracts. The international standard describing the method to select, implement and monitor the life cycle for software is ISO 12207.

A decades-long goal has been to find repeatable, predictable processes that improve productivity and quality. Some try to systematize or formalize the seemingly unruly task of writing software. Others apply project management methods to writing software. Without project management, software projects can easily be delivered late or over budget. With large numbers of software projects not meeting their expectations in terms of functionality, cost, or delivery schedule, effective project management appears to be lacking.

See also [ edit | edit source ]

• List of software engineering topics
• List of software development philosophies
• Domain-specific modeling
• Lightweight methodology
• Object modeling language
• Structured programming
• Integrated IT Methodology

References [ edit | edit source ]

• ↑ a b Geoffrey Elliott (2004) Global Business Information Technology: an integrated systems approach . Pearson Education. p.87.
• ↑ a b c d e f g h Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Office of Information Service (2008). Selecting a development approach . Webarticle. United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Revalidated: March 27, 2008. Retrieved 15 July 2015.
• ↑ Wasserfallmodell > Entstehungskontext , Markus Rerych, Institut für Gestaltungs- und Wirkungsforschung, TU-Wien. Accessed on line November 28, 2007.
• ↑ a b Barry Boehm (1996., "A Spiral Model of Software Development and Enhancement ". In: ACM SIGSOFT Software Engineering Notes (ACM) 11(4):14-24, August 1986
• ↑ Richard H. Thayer, Barry W. Boehm (1986). Tutorial: software engineering project management . Computer Society Press of the IEEE. p.130
• ↑ Barry W. Boehm (2000). Software cost estimation with Cocomo II: Volume 1 .
• ↑ Georges Gauthier Merx & Ronald J. Norman (2006). Unified Software Engineering with Java . p.201.
• ↑ Edward J. Barkmeyer ea (2003). Concepts for Automating Systems Integration NIST 2003.
• ↑ a b c d Paul R. Smith & Richard Sarfaty (1993). Creating a strategic plan for configuration management using Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tools. Paper For 1993 National DOE/Contractors and Facilities CAD/CAE User's Group.
• ↑ Kuhn, D.L (1989). "Selecting and effectively using a computer aided software engineering tool". Annual Westinghouse computer symposium; 6-7 Nov 1989; Pittsburgh, PA (USA); DOE Project.
• ↑ P. Loucopoulos and V. Karakostas (1995). System Requirements Engineering . McGraw-Hill.
• ↑ CASE definition In: Telecom Glossary 2000 . Retrieved 26 Oct 2008.
• ↑ K. Robinson (1992). Putting the Software Engineering into CASE . New York : John Wiley and Sons Inc.
• ↑ Xiao He (2007). "A metamodel for the notation of graphical modeling languages". In: Computer Software and Applications Conference, 2007. COMPSAC 2007 - Vol. 1. 31st Annual International , Volume 1, Issue , 24–27 July 2007, pp 219-224.

External links [ edit | edit source ]

• Selecting a development approach at cms.gov.
• Software Methodologies Book Reviews An extensive set of book reviews related to software methodologies and processes

• Book:Introduction to Software Engineering

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What Is a Software Development Methodology? - A Quick Tour to All the Prevalent Types

Trung Tran | 03/02/2023

Whether it is in-house or software development outsourcing , picking the right methodology for your project is significantly important. In this list, we are going to take you on a quick tour of the common software development methodologies as well as give you some clues on how to choose the right one for your software projects. Let’s get started.

What Is a Software Development Methodology?

At its essence, a software development or software engineering methodology is a set of principles and techniques used to guide the entire software development life cycle toward the successful completion of projects. It typically encompasses a number of steps and stages, such as requirements gathering, prototyping, design, coding, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Each step is designed to ensure the software works correctly and meets the end user’s needs.

All the Popular Software Development Methodologies

Regarding project management, there are many different software development methodologies to consider. Depending on each approach you pick, the stages and tasks involved in the software development process will differ accordingly. Indeed, it is hard to decide between one and another, and there will be no one-size-fits-all approach for every business or project.

Waterfall Development Methodology

This is the traditional software development method and follows a sequential process. Waterfall involves the creation of software in stages, with each stage concluded before moving to the next. This is a rigid linear model that progresses downward like a waterfall, hence its name. In Waterfall methodology, software developers have no worry about the overlapping of work between one stage and another. The Waterfall development method does not suit complex projects; it is the best for the one that has a clear scope, is relatively simple, and does not require many changes.

Agile Software Development Methodology

This approach enables development teams to design a disciplined software management process that is able to quickly adapt and respond to changes in technology or requirements. Agile focuses on iterative deliverables, customer collaboration, and continuous delivery — all of which are designed to make the development process more efficient by allowing for quick changes and adaptations as needed.

Compared to other software development methodologies, Agile is a much more flexible and adaptive approach, which is the reason why it is becoming increasingly popular and widely adopted by most software development projects.

Scrum Methodology

Scrum is a subset of the Agile development methodology that emphasizes collaboration and encourages cross-functional teams to work together in order to complete tasks. This iterative approach is based on the concept of “sprints,” which are short cycles of work that last no longer than a month. During each sprint, tasks are identified, prioritized, and assigned to members of the development team. This approach allows teams to adjust priorities quickly as needed throughout the software development processes.

Kanban Methodology

This is an alternative approach to Scrum and Agile methodology, where tasks are visually divided into columns. It is used to manage the software development workflow and streamline processes in order to optimize delivery times. Kanban boards are pretty popular among software development teams as they provide better visibility into what needs to be done at any given time.

DevOps Methodology

This is a combination of software development and operations, with the goal of facilitating seamless collaboration between development and operations teams. DevOps puts an emphasis on the automation of processes in order to speed up delivery times. Setting up continuous integration (CI) pipelines allows developers to quickly identify issues, fix them faster and deploy code more efficiently. There is a practice evolving from the DevOps approach, which is known as DevSecOps. While the focus of DevOps is on efficiency, DevSecOps focuses on ensuring security and compliance.

Spiral Model

The Spiral combines the features of both Waterfall and Agile. This model is a systematic approach to managing risks that involves multiple iterations. Rather than focusing on completing one stage at a time, the Spiral model enables software developers to iterate through different stages in parallel as needed. Due to the level of risk associated with each stage, the software development process will continue or halt. This model is particularly helpful for projects that require a high degree of risk management and flexibility in terms of delivery times.

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

Rapid Application Development is an approach that enables teams to deliver software quickly while still adhering to quality standards. This approach focuses on building a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) of the application in order to get customer feedback and then iterate accordingly. This helps developers gain insights into customer needs and allows them to quickly adjust their product accordingly. This approach encourages a more flexible and adaptive approach, which is the reason why it is becoming increasingly popular and widely adopted by most software development projects. By taking advantage of RAD techniques, teams can achieve faster deployment times while still ensuring quality delivery.

Dynamic System Development Methodology

The Dynamic Systems model is an Agile process model that combines the best elements of Waterfall, iterative, and incremental methods. It prioritizes customer satisfaction as one of its primary objectives and ensures timely delivery with iterative processes. This method also places a premium on communication between all stakeholders in order to ensure better collaboration and faster delivery. It is also great for projects that require frequent changes, as it enables the software development team to constantly evaluate their progress and quickly adjust their product according to customer feedback.

Lean Software Development Methodology

As its namesake, a Lean development method is a customer-centric approach to software development projects which concentrates on the importance of delivering value. This method allows teams to pay more attention to customer needs and use their feedback to optimize their process throughout the product development cycle. Additionally, it aims at minimizing waste in order to increase efficiency and streamline processes. By taking advantage of lean principles, development teams can prioritize what matters most and deliver value to their customers in a shorter timeframe.

Prototype Methodology

In this software development approach, a prototype - a working version of the software with basic functionality - is created and tested before the actual development process begins. This allows developers to get an understanding of the software requirements, identify potential issues early on, and adjust their approach accordingly. By using the prototype methodology, developers can quickly assess user feedback and incorporate changes as needed without having to start over from scratch. This helps them deliver high-quality software in a shorter timeframe. Additionally, it helps to reduce risks associated with the development process and improve customer satisfaction.

Extreme Programming

XP, or Extreme Programming, is an agile software development methodology that focuses on code quality, rapid iteration, and continuous feedback. XP employs the concept of pair programming - two developers working together to complete a task - in order to create high-quality code quickly and efficiently. Additionally, this approach emphasizes the importance of testing and documentation throughout the development process in order to secure software quality.

Feature-driven Development

Feature-driven development (FDD) is an approach that is based on Agile principles and focuses on iterative delivery. This approach breaks the software development process into small, manageable chunks. The development team starts by creating a feature list and then goes on to develop the software in small increments.

Joint Application Development

Joint Application Development (JAD) is an approach that involves all stakeholders in designing and developing software. By bringing together end-users, developers, and project managers to discuss ideas and reach a consensus on product features, the JAD methodology helps to foster collaboration that will be beneficial for the entire development process of software projects. It helps the software development team explore different solutions during the early stages of the project, which can help reduce risks and ensure successful delivery.

Rational Unified Process

RUP is a software development process that aims to develop and deliver high-quality products through teamwork and iterative development. RUP uses a series of documented processes, models, and development tools to guide the development of software over its life cycle. The process has four activities: inception, elaboration, construction, and transition. It also includes six workflows: requirements, analysis and design, implementation, test, deployment, and project management. This method is iterative, and it allows teams to plan, build, and test software in short cycles. Additionally, it integrates quality assurance activities into the development process to ensure that the product meets customer requirements.

In brief, we have run through a series of common software development methodologies. It is vital to note that the selection of approaches will depend heavily on the project requirements, team size, skills, timeline, budget, and objectives. Different development teams may find that different methodologies are better suited to their projects. So, the decision on which one is the right software development methodology is now in your hand.

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8 Software Development Methodologies Explained

Software development teams are known for using a wide variety of agile methodologies, approaches, and tools to bring value to customers. Depending on the needs of the team and the product's stakeholders, it’s common for teams to deploy and utilize a combination of software development methodologies.

Most dev teams combine methodologies and frameworks to build their own unique approach to product development. You’ll find there are plenty of overlapping principles from one methodology to the next. The key is choosing a system and working as a team to fine-tune and improve that approach so you can continue to reduce waste, maximize efficiency, and master collaboration.

In this post, we’ll outline and compare the following eight software development processes:

1. Agile software development methodology

2. Waterfall methodology

3. Feature driven development (FDD)

4. lean software development methodology, 5. scrum software development methodology, 6. extreme programming (xp), 7. rapid application development (rad), 8. devops deployment methodology.

Agile is the most common term used to describe development methods. It’s often used as an umbrella term to label any methodology that’s agile in nature, meaning an iterative process that reduces waste and maximizes efficiency.

Most software development methodologies are agile with a strong emphasis on iteration, collaboration, and efficiency, as opposed to traditional project management. It’s like comparing jazz to classical music. 🎷

Traditional, linear management methods, such as the waterfall method we’ll cover below, are like classical music, led by one conductor who has a set plan for how the music should be played. The agile process, on the other hand, is more like jazz, which comes together through collaboration, experimentation, and iteration between band members. It’s adaptive and evolves with new ideas, situations, and directions.

2. The waterfall methodology

The waterfall approach is a traditional methodology that’s not very common in software development anymore. For many years, the waterfall model was the leading methodology, but its rigid approach couldn’t meet the dynamic needs of software development.

It’s more common to see the waterfall method used for project management rather than product development. At the beginning of a project, project managers gather all of the necessary information and use it to make an informed plan of action up front. Usually, this plan is a linear, step-by-step process with one task feeding into the next, giving it the “waterfall” name.

The approach is plan-driven and rigid, leaving little room for adjustments. It’s more or less the opposite of agile, prioritizing sticking to the plan rather than adapting to new circumstances.

Feature driven development is also considered an older methodology. Although it uses some agile principles, it’s viewed as the predecessor of today’s agile and lean methodologies.

As the name says, this process focuses on frequently implementing client-valued features. It’s an iterative process with all eyes on delivering tangible results to end users. The process is adaptive, improving based on new data and results that are collected regularly to help software developers identify and react to errors.

This kind of focused agile methodology can work for some teams that want a highly structured approach and clear deliverables while still leaving some freedom for iteration.

Lean software development comes from the principles of lean manufacturing. At its core, lean development strives to improve efficiency by eliminating waste. By reducing tasks and activities that don’t add real value, team members can work at optimal efficiency.

The five lean principles provide a workflow that teams use to identify waste and refine processes. Lean is also a guiding mindset that can help people work more efficiently, productively, and effectively.

The philosophies and principles of lean can be applied to agile and other software development methodologies. Lean development provides a clear application for scaling agile practices across large or growing organizations.

Scrum is a system regularly used by software development teams. Like many software development methodologies, Scrum is agile, focusing on a value-driven approach. The Scrum process is based on empiricism, which is the theory that knowledge comes from hands-on experience and observable facts.

One Scrum takes place over a preset amount of time called a sprint. Usually, the time frame is between two to four weeks and the Scrum is at the beginning of the sprint. The goal of each sprint is to yield an imperfect but progressing version of a product to bring to stakeholders so that feedback can be integrated right away into the next sprint.

The specific goals of each sprint are determined by a product owner who orders and prioritizes backlog items (the artifacts that need completion). The sprint process repeats over and over again with the development team adjusting and iterating based on successes, failures, and stakeholder feedback.

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Extreme programming , also called XP, is a methodology based on improving software quality and responsiveness. It’s an agile approach that evolves based on customer requirements; the ultimate goal is producing high-quality results. Quality isn’t just limited to the final product — it applies to every aspect of the work, ensuring a great work experience for developers, programmers, and managers.

Decision-making in extreme programming is based on five values: communication, simplicity, feedback, courage, and respect. The specifics of XP can’t apply to all situations, but the general framework can provide value no matter the context.

Rapid application development (RAD), sometimes called rapid application building (RAB), is an agile methodology that aims to produce quality results at a low-cost investment. The process prioritizes rapid prototyping and frequent iteration.

Rapid application development begins with defining the project requirements. From there, teams design and build imperfect prototypes to bring to stakeholders as soon as possible. Prototyping and building repeat over and over through iterations until a product is complete and meets customer requirements.

This is ideal for smaller projects with a well-defined objective. The process helps developers make quick adjustments based on frequent feedback from stakeholders. It’s all about creating quick prototypes that can get in front of users for constructive feedback as soon as possible. This feedback is pulled into the user design so that development decisions are based on the direct thoughts and concerns of those who will use the product.

The DevOps deployment methodology is a combination of Dev (software development) and Ops (information technology operations). Together, they create a set of practices designed to improve communication and collaboration between the departments responsible for developing a product.

It's an ongoing loop of communication between product developers and Ops teams (IT operations.) Like so many agile processes, it relies on continuous feedback to help teams save time, increase customer satisfaction, improve launch speed, and reduce risks.

The steps of DevOps deployment repeat, aiming to increase customer satisfaction with new features, functionality, and improvements. However, this methodology has some drawbacks. Some customers don’t want continuous updates to their systems once they are satisfied with an end product.

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Most software development teams use a combination of methodologies and frameworks to fit their team size, team dynamics, and the type of work being completed. The key is to use an agile methodology and work together to continually improve your systems as you learn and grow.

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Table of Contents

What is software development methodology, top software development methodologies, challenges and risks in implementing software development methodologies, how to select the appropriate software methodology for my project, choose the right software development program for you, software development methodologies: everything you need to know.

Software engineering methodologies are important for creating better software projects. It helps developers plan, produce, and test software. These methods simplify tasks, improve collaboration, and achieve timely and budget-friendly outcomes. Knowing various methods can help you in the technology field.

This article is about ways to make software and how they can help you. It will help you choose the best method fulfilling your needs.

Software development methodology is defined as a framework for developing information systems, focusing on planning and organization. It benefits both teams and customers by improving efficiency and adaptability to changes.

In the past years, people have introduced many ways to develop software. Here we will discuss the top 4 ways, among several, to develop software.

Agile Development Methodology

Agile methodology prioritizes user satisfaction and communication, using short sprints and frequent feedback to make software changes.

Usage: Agile is best for projects with changing requirements, especially in new areas of software development. It lets developers include new ideas based on market needs, assuming they are independent and prefer to work fast.

DevOps Deployment Methodology

DevOps is a method that combines development and operations teams to promote collaboration and improve efficiency in software development.

Usage: This method works best when you want to work with big development and IT teams to automate testing and delivery of complete processes quickly.

Waterfall Development Method

The waterfall methodology is a sequential approach used in some projects today due to its simplicity. It requires completing each stage before moving on, which makes it inflexible for projects with changing requirements.

Usage: Use waterfall for projects with a clear scope. It is not good for projects with many unknowns. The waterfall is considered best for projects with predictable outcomes and inexperienced developers.

Rapid Application Development

The Rapid Application Development (RAD) model, introduced in 1991, prioritizes speed and quality. It consists of defining requirements, creating prototypes, testing, and implementing. RAD focuses on building and testing prototypes with the customer through multiple iterations, reducing product risk. Development tools streamline the process.

Usage: Rapid Application Development (RAD) relies on a skilled team of developers and engaged customers for successful projects. Effective communication is essential, and investing in RAD tools can speed up development.

1. Resistance to Change

Introducing new software development methodologies can face resistance from the team. People might be used to their old ways and resist adapting to new approaches.

2. Complexity

Some methodologies can be complex, especially for those new to them. It might take time for the team to fully grasp and implement these methods.

3. Customization

Not all methodologies fit all projects. Teams might need to customize them to suit their project's specific needs, which can be a challenge.

4. Training

Learning new software development methods takes time. Teams might need training to understand and use these methodologies effectively.

5. Team Coordination

Different methodologies require different ways of working. Coordinating between team members using diverse software development approaches  can be challenging.

6. Changing Requirements

Sometimes project requirements change midway. Adapting methodologies to these changes can be complex.

7. Resource Allocation

Certain methodologies might need specific resources. Allocating these resources correctly can pose a challenge.

8. Time Constraints

Implementing new methodologies can take time. Balancing this implementation with project timelines can be tough.

9. Risk Management

While methodologies aim to minimize risks, their implementation itself can introduce new risks that need careful handling.

10. Overhead

Some methodologies might introduce additional steps that could feel like unnecessary work, impacting efficiency.

11. Cultural Shift

Moving to new software development methodologies can sometimes require a cultural shift in how the team approaches their work.

12. Project Size

Large projects might require more complex methodologies, while simpler ones might not need such intricacies.

13. Communication

Effective communication is vital. Some methodologies might require more communication between team members than others.

14. Tools and Technology

New methodologies might need specific tools or technology that the team needs to learn and incorporate.

Implementing new methodologies might need budget allocation for training, tools, and other resources.

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The right software development methodology is important for project success. Consider factors and ask questions to choose the best one.

• Evaluating Project Requirement and Scope: Is it a large-scale enterprise application development or a smaller web development project? This will help determine if an agile or waterfall methodology is more suitable.
• Assessing Team’s Expertise and Experience: Are they familiar with specific methodologies like Scrum or Kanban? Their competency level in different methodologies can influence your decision.
• Considering Project Timeline and Client Expectations: Does the client require continuous product updates throughout development? In such cases, an agile approach would be preferable.
• Considering Flexibility and Adaptability: Is it essential to accommodate changing requirements or are they well-defined from the start? Agile methodologies excel in managing evolving requirements effectively.
• Analyzing Resources: Do you have sufficient manpower to implement a complex methodology like RUP? Lack of resources may lead you to opt for simpler approaches like Extreme Programming (XP).
• Reviewing Previous Successful Projects: Was there a particular method that worked well in those situations? Does it match with the current project? If yes, then select that method.

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Program Name Full Stack Java Developer Career Bootcamp Automation Testing Masters Program Post Graduate Program in Full Stack Web Development Geo IN All Non-US University Simplilearn Simplilearn Caltech Course Duration 11 Months 11 Months 9 Months Coding Experience Required Basic Knowledge Basic Knowledge Basic Knowledge Skills You Will Learn 15+ Skills Including Core Java, SQL, AWS, ReactJS, etc. Java, AWS, API Testing, TDD, etc. Java, DevOps, AWS, HTML5, CSS3, etc. Additional Benefits Interview Preparation Exclusive Job Portal 200+ Hiring Partners Structured Guidance Learn From Experts Hands-on Training Caltech CTME Circle Membership Learn 30+ Tools and Skills 25 CEUs from Caltech CTME Cost $$ $$ $$$ Explore Program Explore Program Explore Program

Software development methodologies are crucial for successful projects, enabling teams to collaborate, allocate resources effectively, and deliver quality products on schedule. Customizing the methodology to align with team objectives is vital, and understanding the pros and cons of various approaches leads to better outcomes. It is essential to explore different methodologies and select the most suitable one for future projects to reap the benefits.

If you are looking to enhance your software development skills further, we highly recommend you to check Simplilearn’s Post Graduate Program in Full Stack Web Development . This program, in collaboration with Caltech CTME, can help you gain the right software development experience and make you job-ready in no time.

If you have any questions or queries, feel free to post them in the comments section below. Our team will get back to you at the earliest.

1. What are the most popular software development methodologies? 

The most popular software development methodologies are Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, and RAD.

2. Can methodologies be mixed or customized? 

Absolutely! Software development methodologies are not fixed. You can definitely mix and match different methodologies to create a customized approach that suits your project's specific needs.

3. How do methodologies contribute to the success of a software project?

Methodologies help manage projects by providing a plan for using resources efficiently, delivering on time, and communicating effectively.

4. Is SDLC Agile or waterfall?

Both Agile and waterfall methodologies can be used within the SDLC, but traditionally, waterfall has been more closely associated with its linear approach, while Agile focuses on iterative development.

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The Ultimate Guide to Software Development Methodologies

May 27, 2023 - 7 min read

Software development is a complex process that involves various phases, ranging from planning and design to implementation and testing. In this article, we’ll explore key software development methodologies, their benefits, drawbacks, and when they are ideal to use.

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Understanding software development methodologies

Software development methodologies are structured approaches to managing and creating software projects. These methods provide a set of guidelines and techniques for all phases of the software development life cycle (SDLC). They are intended to improve the overall quality, efficiency, and productivity of the software development project .

There are several software development methodologies available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular methodologies include Agile, Waterfall, Scrum , and DevOps. Each methodology has its unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of projects.

The importance of choosing the right methodology

Selecting the right methodology for a software development project is a crucial decision that can have a significant impact on its success. Failing to choose the right approach can lead to cost overruns, missed deadlines, and poor-quality software.

It’s essential to consider the project's size, complexity, and scope, as well as the team's skills and experience, budget, and timeline. 

Key factors to consider when selecting a methodology

Considers these factors when selecting a software development methodology: 

• Project size, complexity, and scope: For smaller projects with well-defined requirements, a Waterfall methodology may be suitable. However, for larger and more complex projects, Agile or Scrum methodologies may be a better fit.
• Team skill set and experience: If the team has experience working with a particular methodology, it may be more efficient to continue using it. However, if the team is not familiar with any particular methodology, it may be beneficial to choose one that is easier to learn and implement.
• Project budget and timeline: Some methodologies may be more expensive than others, and some may take longer to implement. Choose a methodology that fits within the project's budget and timeline while still meeting its needs and requirements.

Waterfall methodology

The Waterfall Model, also known as the traditional approach, is a linear and sequential approach to software development. In this model, each phase of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) must be completed before proceeding to the next phase. These phases are requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance. 

Overview and history of Waterfall

First introduced in 1970 by Winston W. Royce in his paper titled "Managing the Development of Large Software Systems," the name "waterfall" originates from the software development process's sequential flow, where the output of each phase becomes the input for the next. This approach gained popularity in the early days of software development due to its ease of use and simplicity. 

Initially, this model was used in projects where the requirements were well-defined and the technology was stable. The model's sequential nature made it easy to manage and understand the project's progress. However, as software development evolved, the limitations of the Waterfall Model became apparent.

Pros and cons of Waterfall

The Waterfall model's key advantages include its simplicity, predictability, and fixed project scope and budget. It’s easy to understand and manage project resources, especially ideal for large, complex projects. 

However, this model's inflexibility to changes, lack of adaptive approach, long development cycles, and difficulty identifying and addressing mistakes earlier during the process are significant drawbacks. The sequential nature of the model makes it difficult to make changes once a phase is completed. This can lead to delays and increased costs if changes are required later in the project.

When to use Waterfall methodology

The Waterfall methodology is ideal for well-defined projects with clear, predictable outcomes. It works best when all the project requirements are understood and don’t fluctuate, and there’s no technological ambiguity. The process is also suitable for projects with fixed budgets and timelines.

Agile methodology

Overview and history of agile.

Emerging in the early 2000s as a response to some of the challenges of the Waterfall model, Agile methodology is based on the Agile Manifesto , emphasizing delivering working software, welcoming changes, frequent feedback, and close collaboration between the development team and the customer. It is a flexible, iterative, and incremental approach to software development, emphasizing customer satisfaction, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Pros and cons of Agile

The flexibility of the Agile methodology allows for changes to be made throughout the development process, ensuring that the final product meets the needs of the customer. The adaptability to changes is also a significant advantage, as it allows for the project to evolve over time, resulting in a better end product.

Another key advantage is the faster feedback cycles. This translates into a more iterative approach to development, with regular feedback from the customer and the team, so that the project is on track and meets the desired outcomes. In addition, it allows for any issues to be identified and addressed quickly, reducing the risk of delays or problems later in the development process.

However, there are also some significant drawbacks to Agile methodology. Planning can be challenging, as the iterative nature of the methodology means that it can be difficult to predict exactly when the project will be completed. Inexperienced developers may also struggle with the flexibility of the approach, as it requires a high degree of collaboration and communication. There is also a higher risk of scope creep . As changes can be made throughout the development process, there is a risk that the project will expand beyond its original scope, resulting in delays and additional costs.

Popular Agile frameworks

Scrum is an iterative, flexible, and collaborative Agile framework for software project management . It emphasizes Daily Stand-up meetings, time-bound sprints, constant feedback, and team self-management. This framework is particularly popular in the software development industry, as it allows for a high degree of collaboration and communication between the development team and the customer.

Kanban is a visual process management tool that allows teams to visualize work, limit work-in-progress, and focus on delivering small units of work continuously. It emphasizes just-in-time delivery, flow, and continuous improvement. This framework is particularly useful for projects that require a high degree of flexibility and adaptability, as changes can be made quickly and easily.

Extreme Programming (XP)

Extreme Programming (XP) is an Agile software development methodology that boasts flexibility, customer satisfaction, and high quality. It emphasizes frequent releases, continuous delivery, test-driven development, code review, and pair programming. This framework works well with projects that require a high degree of collaboration and communication between the development team and the customer, as it allows for a high degree of feedback and iteration throughout the entire development process.

The selection of the right software development methodology depends on several factors, including project type, size, complexity, budget, and timeline. While the Waterfall model is suitable for well-defined projects, the Agile methodology is ideal for projects with changing requirements. Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming are popular Agile frameworks that provide flexibility, responsiveness, and high-quality product delivery. By selecting the right methodology, software development projects can achieve success more efficiently, saving time and effort in the process.

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Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.

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How Goal-Setting Software Can Keep You on Track

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Software Engineering Features - Models, Methods, Tools, Standards, and Metrics

Lead Author: Tom Hilburn

In recent decades, software has become ubiquitous. Almost all modern engineered systems include significant software subsystems; this includes systems in the transportation, finance, education, healthcare, legal, military, and business sectors. Along with the increase in software utility, capability, cost, and size there has been a corresponding growth in methods, models, tools, metrics and standards, which support software engineering.

Chapter 10 of the SWEBOK discusses modeling principles and types, and the methods and tools that are used to develop, analyze, implement, and verify the models. The other SWEBOK chapters on the software development phases (e.g., Software Design) discuss methods and tools specific to the phase. Table 1 identifies software engineering features for different life-cycle phases. The table is not meant to be complete; it simply provides examples. In Part 2 of the SEBoK there is a discussion of models and the following is one of the definitions offered: “an abstraction of a system, aimed at understanding, communicating, explaining, or designing aspects of interest of that system” (Dori 2002).

For the purposes of Table 1 the definition of a model is extended to some aspect of the software system or its development. As an example, “Project Plan” is listed as a model in the Software Management area. The idea is that the Project Plan provides a model of how the project is going to be carried out: the project team organization, the process to be used, the work to be done, the project schedule, and the resources needed.

Table 1: SWE Features (SEBoK Original)

Software Metric

A software metric is a quantitative measure of the degree a software system, component, or process possesses a given attribute. Because of the abstract nature of software and special problems with software schedule, cost, and quality, data collection and the derived metrics are an essential part of software engineering. This is evidenced by the repeated reference to measurement and metrics in the SWEBOK. Table 2 describes software metrics that are collected and used in different areas of software development. As in Table 1 the list is not meant to be complete, but to illustrate the type and range of measures used in practice.

Table 2: Software Metrics * (SEBoK Original)

* Note: Even though the LOC metric is widely used, using it comes with some problems and concerns: different languages, styles, and standards can lead to different LOC counts for the same functionality; there are a variety of ways to define and count LOC– source LOC, logical LOC, with or without comment lines, etc.; and automatic code generation has reduced the effort required to produce LOC.

Works Cited

Bourque, P. and R.E. Fairley (eds.). 2014. Guide to the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK) . Los Alamitos, CA, USA: IEEE Computer Society. Available at: http://www.Swebok.org .

Dori, D. 2003. "Conceptual modeling and system architecting." Communications of the ACM , 46(10), pp. 62-65.

[IEEE 828] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Computer Configuration Management in Systems and Software Engineering , IEEE Std 828- 2012, 20012.

[IEEE 829] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Software and System Test Documentation , IEEE Std 829- 2008, 2008.

[IEEE 830] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Recommended Practice for Software Requirements Specifications , IEEE Std 830-1998, 1998.

[IEEE 1008] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Software Unit Testing, IEEE Std 1008-1987, 1987.

[IEEE 1012] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for System and Software Verification and Validation , IEEE Std 1012-2002, 2012.

[IEEE 1016] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Recommended Practice for Software Design Descriptions , IEEE Std 1016-2002, 2002.

[IEEE 1058] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Software Project Plans , IEEE Std 1058-1998, 1998.

[IEEE 1219] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Software Maintenance , IEEE Std 1219-1998, 1998.

[IEEE 1540] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Risk Management , IEEE Std 1540-2001, 2001.

[IEEE 12207] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Systems and Software Engineering —Software Life Cycle Processes , IEEE Std 12207-2008, 2008.

[IEEE 14764] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Software Engineering - Software Life Cycle Processes - Maintenance . IEEE Std 14764-2006, 2006.

[IEEE 42010] IEEE Computer Society, IEEE Standard for Systems and Software Engineering — Architecture Description , IEEE Std 42010-2011, 2011.

Primary References

Additional references.

Chidamber, S.R., C.F. Kemerer. 1994. “A Metrics Suite for Object Oriented Design”, IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering . Vol. 20, No. 6. June 1994.

Kan, Stephen H. 2003. Metrics and Models in Software Quality Engineering , 2nd edition. Reading, Massachusetts, USA: Addison-Wesley.

Li, M. and Smidts, C. 2003. “A ranking of software engineering measures based on expert opinion.” IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering . September 2003.

McConnell, Steve. 2009. Code Complete , 2nd Ed. Microsoft Press.

Moore, James. 1997. Software Engineering Standards: A User's Road Map . Hoboken, NJ, USA: Wiley-IEEE Computer Society Press.

Sommerville, I. 2010. Software Engineering . 9th Ed. Boston, MA, USA: Addison Wesley.

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13 software development methodologies explained

Georgina Guthrie

September 14, 2020

This post was originally published on April 26, 2019, and updated most recently on September 14, 2020.

As difficult as creating and prioritizing a product backlog is, choosing the software development methodology you are going to use to tackle it may be harder. While every methodology will ensure that software meets its requirements, each comes with its own unique set of pros and cons. So to help you choose, we’ve created a definitive guide to the most popular software development methodologies out there today. Let’s dive in!

The waterfall model

Waterfall is the oldest methodology on the block. It substantially simplifies the software engineering process into a linear process diagram, where the completion of the previous task is necessary for the engineer to be able to move onto the next one.

Source:  tutorialspoint.com

• Easy to understand, which makes it perfect for beginners.
• Easy to manage because each phase has its own deliverables and review processes.
• Quick to implement for smaller projects where the requirements are well understood.
• The simple design allows for easy testing and analysis.
• It’s only suitable when precise, up-front requirements are available.
• It’s not suitable for maintenance projects, or longer, ongoing ones.
• Inflexible: once you release the application, you can’t go back and modify.
• You can’t produce any working software until the entire cycle is complete.

Prototype methodology

The key’s in the name here: it allows developers to create a prototype so they can demonstrate functionality to clients and make modifications according to their feedback. It’s a little like creating an MPV : you start with a pared-down version before investing time and money into creating the real thing.

Source:  tryqa.com

• With this methodology, you can give clients an early feel for your software and then incorporate their feedback into your final design.
• Because you identify risks and issues earlier on, you also reduce the risk of failure.
• Lots of early communication between the client and the software team strengthens the relationship.
• Prototyping can be expensive. On the other hand, prototyping does reduce risk, so you could potentially minimize your budget further down the line.
• Early involvement with the client could be a bad thing: they may interfere and demand changes without fully grasping the project in its entirety.
• Too many modifications can disrupt the dev team’s workflow.

Agile software development methodology

The brainchild of 17 tech pros and their Agile Manifesto, this popular software methodology focuses on adaptive planning, evolutionary development, and continual improvement through flexible response to change. The end goal is early software release with a lower risk of bugs or issues.

Source: financesonline.com

• It’s an adaptive approach that responds to changing requirements quickly and efficiently.
• Constant feedback drastically minimizes risk later on.
• Continual communication improves transparency between the client and the team.
• It focuses on working with software, which means there is less documentation to worry about.
• Scope creep and a lack of focus can become an issue if the brief is unclear.
• A lack of documentation can increase the risk of miscommunication.

Rapid application development (RAD)

The aim here is to provide quicker, higher-quality results than you could achieve with any of the other options. It’s related to the Agile development methodology, insomuch as it emphasizes working software and user feedback in favor of planning. In a nutshell, it’s less talking, more testing.

Source: kissflow.com

• Helps reduce risk due to early issue identification and client feedback.
• Frequent feedback improves transparency between the developers and the client.
• Having users interact with the prototype results in a better-quality product later on.
• Less planning and documentation helps speed up development.
• Reduced features due to timeboxing, which is when features are pushed back to later versions to finish a release in a short amount of time.
• It’s not suitable for small budget projects because modeling costs and automated code generation can be high.
• It’s a relatively new and therefore risky methodology.
• The team needs to be great at working together for this fast-moving process to be a success. Although investing in cloud-based project management software can work wonders when it comes to helping teams collaborate more effectively.

Dynamic systems development model methodology

This methodology has its roots in the RAD model outlined above. It’s an iterative approach that emphasizes continuous improvement and plenty of user involvement. Rather than being focused solely on software development and code, it incorporates project management and project delivery — which is the reason it’s often used for non-techy projects. Its main goal is to provide the product or service on time and within budget.

Source:  acodez.in

• Users are highly involved in the development process so that they can get a feel for the software early on.
• Improved transparency and incremental development reduce risk.
• DSDM is costly to implement because it requires over ten dedicated roles, not to mention frequent testing
• It isn’t suitable for smaller organizations due to the high number of roles needed.

Spiral model

This model focuses on early risk identification. Developers begin by examining potential issues early on when the project is still small-scale. They then assess the risks involved in evolving the project and make plans to either keep the project as it is or address the problems and then move forward onto the next iteration of the ‘spiral.’

Source:  geeksforgeeks.org

• The team puts a lot of time and energy into risk analysis, which minimizes the chance of problems later on.
• It’s an effective model for large, critical projects.
• It’s flexible and allows for additional functionality to be added at a later date.
• It can be expensive due to high levels of analysis and development.
• The success of the entire project is dependent on successful risk analysis. Failure to properly navigate this phase could jeopardize the whole thing!
• There’s no defined finish, which means the project could potentially go over time and budget if not managed carefully.

Extreme programming methodology

Extreme programming methodology (also known as XP methodology) is used when dev teams need to create software in an unstable environment, such as when customer requirements are rapidly changing. It involves frequent ‘releases’ in short development cycles, and ‘checkpoints,’ during which they might add new customer requirements.

Source:  airbrake.io

• There’s lots of client involvement, which improves transparency and strengthens client-team relationships.
• Frequent checkpoints help developers establish schedules and plans.
• There’s lots of frequent feedback, which helps minimize risk and add improvements
• This model requires frequent meetings, which can be expensive for both parties.
• Frequent changes can be disruptive for the developers. It also means it’s tricky to calculate time and cost estimates.
• The cost of changing requirements at a later stage in the project can be high.

Feature-driven development (FDD)

FDD is an iterative development process that blends many industry practices. As the name suggests, the focus is on organizing software development around features. The main goal is to deliver working software to the client as quickly as possible.

Source: hangoutagile

• Five simple processes (develop model, build feature list, plan, design, and build by feature) provide structure and give a good overview of the project.
• This type of model is built on set standards used within the software development industry, which makes it easy for developers to understand quickly.
• Its complexity means it’s not suitable for smaller projects or teams.
• A lot of responsibility is placed on the lead developer, so they need to be highly trained and ready to act as coordinator, designer, and mentor.

Joint application development methodology

This development system was initially used to design computer-based systems before it migrated over to software development. It involves continuous interaction between the users and the dev team to work out the different systems and business requirements while the software is in development. The main aim is to involve the client in the development side of things as much as possible via collaborative workshops called JAD sessions. The focus of these meetings is on the business objective, rather than the technical details.

Source:  www.velvetech.com

• Lots of communication means increased transparency and collaboration.
• This approach produces large amounts of high-quality information in a short period.
• JAD decreases the time and costs associated with the requirements elicitation process.
• Teams can resolve issues immediately.
• Frequent meetings and workshops can be time-consuming, not to mention expensive.
• It also requires lots of planning and scheduling; otherwise, it wastes more time than other methodologies.
• This approach requires strong leaders and experienced developers to ensure workshop focus and productivity.

Lean development methodology

This methodology takes the principles of lean manufacturing (decrease costs, effort, and waste), and applies them to software development to decrease programming effort, budget, and defect rates. It offers developers an excellent conceptual framework , as well as strong values and principles based on established rules. It’s also more flexible than any other type of agile methodology.

Source:  toolsqa.com

• Improved efficiency speeds up development and reduces the overall cost of the project.
• Faster development means the dev team can deliver more functionality in a shorter period.
• The dev team has more decision-making power, which empowers the individuals and helps motivation, and therefore progress. The lean approach follows the Agile Principle of “ Find good people and let them do their own job .”
• Success depends on the team ’s discipline, commitment, and technical ability. Additional training may be required to make sure the team is up to scratch.
• This methodology requires a business analyst to ensure documentation is correct and understood by everyone involved.
• Too much developer flexibility can lead to a lack of focus which could, in turn, damage the workflow of the entire project. This is where good project management software can really help matters.

Rational unified process (RUP) methodology

This is an adaptable process framework teams can tailor to their organization. The RUP has determined a project life-cycle consisting of four phases (inception, elaboration, construction, and transition), each with its own milestone and objective.

Source:  testbytes.net

• It helps team members identify and resolve project risks that are associated with the clients’ evolving requirements through careful request management and review.
• It’s scalable, and therefore suitable for any sized team or project.
• Frequent reviews help maintain focus and improve client-team transparency.
• The development process is complex and requires a highly skilled team.
• Continual component testing and integration increases complexity and could result in more issues during the testing phase.

Scrum development methodology

This one’s best for fast-changing projects with asap deadlines. It’s designed for teams of three to nine members, who split their work into chunks — i.e., sprints — to complete within a set time (usually two weeks.) Every day, the team reviews its progress in stand-up meetings called daily scrums.

Source:  stackify.com

• It speeds up the development process and can bring slow projects back on track.
• Decision-making is largely in the hands of the dev team, who work at their own pace. This helps them focus and improves motivation.
• It’s flexible, which allows for frequent updates and changes.
• A daily meeting helps managers measure individual productivity. It also improves collaboration and productivity within the team.
• It is good for small, fast-moving projects but not suitable for larger ones.
• This methodology needs an experienced team who are working in close proximity to each other. Trainees and time differences could push the project delivery date back.
• Team members should have broad skills, allowing them to work on tasks outside their area of specialization. Some team members may, therefore, require additional training.
• Dividing product development into short sprints requires plenty of careful planning.

DevOps deployment methodology

DevOps is a newer methodology that is being implemented more and more into teams. The word ‘DevOps’ is a combination of the words ‘development’ and ‘IT operations.’ It works by continually running processes, tests, and releases to decrease the time it takes to develop and be released to market. A large focus of DevOps is on organization and collaboration between all the different departments involved to keep the project running smoothly, efficiently, and to stop any bugs from slipping through the cracks and making it to customers.

Source:  softwaretestinghelp.com

• You decrease the time from development to market
• Fewer bugs or failures make it through the process, making it an efficient and accurate process
• Much of the process is automated, helping to speed up the process and allowing the team members working on the project to use their work time more purposefully
• All departments have to be operating within the same environment to properly integrated the process
• Different industries have different regulations in terms of how much testing you have to do before a product can move to operation
• Not all clients want continuous updates to their systems

Final thoughts

While choosing a methodology isn’t easy, a little research and planning go a long way. Compile your own list of strengths and weaknesses about your team. See which methodologies complement your team’s working style and abilities. Then, narrow your options further by comparing which models would best serve your clients and projects.

Trying out some of these methodologies on a trial basis is easier for some than others, so be sure you’re ready and able to commit, review, and pivot if necessary. Over time, you’ll discover which methodology (or a mixture of them!) works for your team.

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Chapter 1 Agile

This book is geared toward Agile , but there are other software process models . Each has a different way of proceeding through the software development life cycle (SDLC) . This chapter starts by describing Scrum, the SDLC, Agile, and a contrasting software process model called Waterfall. That is followed by a discussion of Scrum (an Agile framework) and notable Agile methods.

This chapter will give you the flavor of Agile and Scrum rather than being a comprehensive guide. For more detailed information about topics introduced here, see the References section at the end of the chapter.

1.1 The Software Development Life Cycle

The software development lifecycle (SDLC) is the progression of a software project through five SDLC stages:

• Requirements : Figuring out and writing down what the software must do, how well, and under what limitations or constraints.
• Design : Determining how the software’s code will be structured and how users will interact with the software.
• Implementation : Using the requirements and design to code the software.
• Testing : Checking that the code was written without fault ( verification ) and that the software is what the users or client wants ( validation ).
• Maintenance : Improving software’s existing functionality and code.

There are different ways to travel through the SDLC stages. Patterns of traveling through the stages are called software process models. Commonly, people compare the Agile software process model with the Waterfall model.

Agile, guided by the Agile Manifesto (Beck et al., 2001 ), moves through the SDLC approximately like in Figure 1.1.

Note . The vertical lines represent development cycle boundaries. Planning (R,D) for the next development cycle starts during the previous cycle. R, requirements; D, design; I, implementation; T, testing; M, maintenance.

Agile development cycles are relatively short and numerous. Releases are frequent and incremental. Each cycle, there’s a little more working functionality. There are multiple ways to go about developing and managing software in an Agile way, such as by using the Scrum framework (Schwaber & Sutherland, 2020 ) or Extreme Programming (XP) (Beck & Andres, 2004 ; Wells, 2013 ).

Waterfall moves through the SDLC approximately like in Figure 1.2.

Movement is fairly linear and sequential. Each stage depends on the previous stage having been completed. Lots of documentation is produced.

Ironically, people often associate Waterfall with an article that describes Waterfall’s major flaws. The second figure in Royce’s ( 1970 ) article depicts the Waterfall model with seven stages and downward movement from one stage to the next, suggesting that movement to the previous stage is not allowed—you can’t swim up a waterfall. Later in the article, Royce suggests modifications to the Waterfall model, such as making and implementing a preliminary program design (then going back to the requirements stage as needed).

Waterfall might not make sense for many software projects, but how about for building a bridge?

1.1.1 Why Care about Agile, Other Software Process Models, and Software Engineering Methods?

The 2015 CHAOS report contains aggregate data about more than 25,000 software projects.

Some findings about software projects :

9% of Agile projects failed 29% of Waterfall projects failed 23% of large Agile projects failed 42% of large Waterfall projects failed 4% of small Agile projects failed 11% of small Waterfall projects failed

• So you can detect and/or understand what a software development team is doing . When you’re new to a team, having a general understanding of different software process models can help you ask good questions, identify what you see the team doing, and look competent in front of your team and managers .
• So you have ideas to choose from when you need to select a software process model or method for a new project. You might need to choose or recommend how your team proceeds.
• So you have ideas to choose from when a project is in trouble. According to CHAOS Report from the Standish Group International, Inc. ( 2015 ), during fiscal years 2011 to 2015, 17% to 22% of software projects failed of the 25,000+ software projects in their database, with the likelihood of project failure increasing drastically with project size . Sometimes, you can save a project if you have the right methods.

Since this book is focused on Agile, the remainder of the chapter summarizes the Agile software process model, one Agile framework (Scrum), and a few Agile methods.

1.2 Agile, Scrum, and Agile Methods

1.2.1 agile.

The Agile philosophy is summed up by the Agile Manifesto for Software Development (Beck et al., 2001 ):

We are uncovering better ways of developing software by doing it and helping others do it. Through this work we have come to value:

• Individuals and interactions over processes and tools.
• Working software over comprehensive documentation.
• Customer collaboration over contract negotiation.
• Responding to change over following a plan.

That is, while there is value in the items on the right, we value the items on the left more.

Why does this book have a whole chapter about Agile and not one about Waterfall or any other software process model? Because most organizations use Agile for software or IT projects.

For example, an HP survey of 601 respondents (Hewlett Packard Enterprise, 2017 ) found the following distribution of what organizations use as their primary software process model:

• 51%: Leaning toward Agile
• 46%: Hybrid
• 16%: Pure Agile
• 7%: Leaning toward Waterfall
• 2%: Pure Waterfall

Why do organizations choose Agile? According to HP, out of 403 organizations that have primarily adopted Agile, the following percentage of respondents agreed with the following statements about Agile development:

• 54%: Enhances collaboration between teams that don’t usually work together.
• 52%: Increases the level of software quality in organizations.
• 49%: Results in increased customer satisfaction.
• 43%: Shortens time to market .
• 42%: Reduces cost of development.

1.2.2 Scrum

Scrum is a well-known framework for software project management. It aligns with the Agile philosophy. For example, the Scrum Guide (the ever-evolving manual for Scrum; Schwaber & Sutherland, 2020 ) says that to reflect the “responding to change” value, a software project should be broken into development Sprints that are usually two to four weeks long. Each Sprint has a Sprint Plan. Sprint Plans can be defined shortly before the Sprint; Teams (and their customers) might only know what is happening with the project’s development for a couple weeks at a time.

Scrum Teams fit their own methods into the Scrum framework, which the current version of the Scrum Guide divides into three categories: the team , the events , and the artifacts . To give you a quick, convenient introduction to Scrum, each element of the framework is listed below, by category.

The Team . The Scrum Team “consists of one Scrum Master , one Product Owner , and Developers .”

• Scrum Master : “accountable for establishing Scrum as defined in the Scrum Guide.”
• Product Owner : “accountable for maximizing the value of the product resulting from the work of the Scrum Team.”
• Developers : “people in the Scrum Team that are committed to creating any aspect of a usable Increment each Sprint.”

The Scrum Master’s focus is process , the Product Owner’s focus is the product (software), and the Developers’ focus is creating a product while following Scrum processes.

The Events . There are five Scrum events:

• The Sprint : fixed-length development periods of “ one month or less . . . A new Sprint starts immediately after the conclusion of the previous Sprint.”
• Sprint Planning : “initiates the Sprint by laying out the work to be performed.”
• Daily Scrum : “a 15-minute event for the Developers of the Scrum Team . . . focuses on progress toward the Sprint Goal and produces an actionable plan for the next day of work.”
• Sprint Review : “to inspect the outcome of the Sprint and determine future adaptations. The Scrum Team presents the results of their work to key stakeholders . . . ”
• Sprint Retrospective : “to plan ways to increase quality and effectiveness . . . Scrum Team inspects how the last Sprint went . . .”

A Sprint is a development period that occurs in a series of Sprints, which are each laid out during Sprint Planning. Each day, the Developers have a 15-minute meeting about planning the next workday. Sprints end with a Sprint Review (team and stakeholders) and a Sprint Retrospective (team only).

The Artifacts . There are three Scrum artifacts:

• Product Backlog : “an emergent, ordered list of what is needed to improve the product.”
• Sprint Backlog : “composed of the Sprint Goal (why), the set of Product Backlog items selected for the Sprint (what), as well as an actionable plan for delivering the Increment (how).”
• Increment : “a concrete stepping stone toward the Product Goal .”

The Product Backlog contains a rough list of tasks the Scrum Team is planning to do some time, but the tasks haven’t yet been scheduled and may not be defined in detail. The Sprint Backlog contains tasks the team has decided to work on and has added details about completing the tasks. An Increment is an achievement toward creating the product (e.g., finishing a feature implementation).

The Scrum Guide (Schwaber & Sutherland, 2020 ) describes the Scrum framework elements in more detail and defines some of the terms that were unexplained here (e.g., Sprint Goal).

1.2.3 Agile Methods

There are several notable Agile methods that can be used within Scrum (or other frameworks, or other software process models). A few of them:

• Scrum board : A way to organize and visualize tasks or work as cards on a board. The board has columns for different categories, and each card is placed within a column. A Scrum board could be a physical bulletin board with sticky notes or index cards. It is also a common feature of task management software.
• Spike : A quick and to-the-point investigation for gathering information to help the team answer a question or choose a development path.
• User story : A short description of a software feature from the perspective of fulfilling a user need (e.g., using this format: As a <role> I can <capability>, so that <receive benefit>). Tasks, priorities, time/cost estimates, and acceptance criteria may be associated with a user story.

1.3 Summary

“Agile” has associated values but no concrete meaning: it’s a philosophy, and there’s not just one way to follow it. Agile frameworks such as Scrum give more concrete guidance on software development and project management . Scrum is defined by the current version of the Scrum Guide (Schwaber & Sutherland, 2020 ), which changes frequently.

Beck, K., Beedle, M., van Bennekum, A., Cockburn, A., Cunningham, W., Fowler, M., Grenning, J., Highsmith, J., Hunt, A., Jeffries, R., Kern, J., Marick, B., Martin, R. C., Mellor, S., Schwaber, K., Sutherland, J., & Thomas, D. (2001). Manifesto for Agile software development . https://agilemanifesto.org/

Beck, K., & Andres, C. (2004). Extreme programming explained: Embrace change (2nd ed.). Addison-Wesley.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (2017). Agile is the new normal: Adopting Agile project management . https://softwaretestinggenius.com/docs/4aa5-7619.pdf

Royce, W. W. (1970). Managing the development of large software systems. Proceedings of IEEE WESCON, 26 , 1-9.

Schwaber, K., & Sutherland, J. (2020, November). The 2020 scrum guide . https://scrumguides.org/scrum-guide.html

Standish Group International, Inc. (2015). CHAOS report 2015 . https://standishgroup.com/sample_research_files/CHAOSReport2015-Final.pdf

Wells, D. (2013, October 13). Extreme programming: A gentle introduction. http://www.extremeprogramming.org/

A software process model and philosophy for managing and developing software projects. Agile values include individuals and interactions, working software, customer collaboration, and responding to change.

A philosophy and/or set of approaches for software development and/or software project management.

Phases through which a software’s development proceeds: requirements, design, implementation, testing, maintenance.

An Agile framework designed for the development and maintenance of complex software.

Confirming that software satisfied its requirements (“Did we build the software right?”).

Confirming that software meets users’ needs (“Did we build the right software?”).

Way of going about software development and management that is characterized by extensive planning, comprehensive documentation, and moving linearly through stages of the software development life cycle (SDLC).

Wells, D. (2013, October 13). Extreme programming: A gentle introduction . http://www.extremeprogramming.org/

The process of planning and executing a project while balancing the time, cost, and scope constraints.

Handbook of Software Engineering Methods Copyright © 2024 by Lara Letaw is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

What Is the Waterfall Methodology?

The waterfall methodology is an approach used by software and product development teams  manage projects. The methodology separates the different parts of the project into phases specifying the necessary activities and steps. For example, at the beginning of the project, the waterfall methodology focuses on gathering all requirements from stakeholders that project team members will later use to design and implement the product. 

However, waterfall has its, well…downfalls, which I’ll discuss in more detail below. In short, waterfall may not be suitable for every development process and you can find modified or extended versions of the waterfall methodology that try to solve some of these issues. 

One example of an extended version of the waterfall methodology is the V-model . A key distinction of the V-model from the original Waterfall methodology is its emphasis on validation and testing during the entire project duration, as opposed to only testing after an implementation phase.

More From This Expert What Is JSON?

What Is the Waterfall Methodology in Software Engineering?

The waterfall methodology is a software development life cycle (SDLC) model used to build software projects. 

One thing that distinguishes waterfall from other SDLC models (like Agile ) is that phases are performed sequentially. In other words, the project team must complete each phase in a specific order. If you look at the diagram below, you can see the flow is similar to a waterfall.

Working with SDLC models often includes additional software to keep track of planning, tasks and more. So it’s possible to find tools designed to support the waterfall methodology’s specific workflow, for example.

What Are the Different Phases of the Waterfall Methodology? 

The waterfall methodology was one of the first established SDLC models. In fact, waterfall dates back to 1970 when Dr. Winston W. Royce described it in “ Managing the Development of Large Software Systems .” However, we should note that Royce didn’t refer to the methodology as “waterfall” in the paper. The waterfall nomenclature came later. In his original paper, Royce specified the following phases.

7 Stages of the Waterfall Model

• System requirements 
• Software requirements
• Program design

The system and software requirement phase involves gathering and documenting the requirements defining the product. This process typically involves stakeholders such as the customer and project managers. The analysis phase involves steps such as analyzing the requirements to identify risks and documenting strategies.

The design phase focuses on designing architecture, business logic and concepts for the software. The design phase is followed by the coding phase which involves writing the source code for the software based on the planned design.

The testing phase concerns testing the software to ensure it meets expectations. The last phase, operations , involves deploying the application as well as planning support and maintenance.

Advantages of the Waterfall Methdology

Waterfall provides a systematic and predictable framework that helps reconcile expectations, improve planning, increase efficiency and ensure quality control. What’s more, waterfall documentation provides an entry for people outside the project to build on the software without having to rely on its creators, which is helpful if you need to bring in external assistance or implement changes to the project team.

Disadvantages of the Waterfall Methodology

The structural limitations of the waterfall methodology may introduce some problems for projects with many uncertainties. For instance, the methodology’s linear flow requires that each phase be completed before moving on to the next, which means the methodology doesn’t support revisiting and refining data based on new information that may come later in the project life cycle. A specific example of this limitation is the methodology’s focus on defining all requirements at the beginning of the project. After all, stakeholders may not know everything about the project at the very start or they may change their opinion later about what the product should actually do or what customer segment they’re trying to serve. 

On the other hand, a project with well-defined and stable requirements may benefit from waterfall because it ensures the establishment and documentation of the requirements as soon as possible.

Another disadvantage of the waterfall methodology can be the late implementation of the actual software, which may result in a product not correlating with stakeholders’ expectations. For example, if the developers have misunderstood the customer’s idea about a specific feature due to poorly defined requirements, the final product will not behave as expected. Late testing can also lead to finding systemic problems too late in the project’s development when it’s more difficult to correct the design.

More From the Built In Tech Dictionary What Is Agile?

Waterfall Methodology vs. Agile

Another approach to software development is the Agile methodology . Agile is more flexible and open to changes than waterfall, which makes Agile more suitable for projects affected by rapid changes.

A key difference between the two methodologies is the project’s flow. While waterfall is a linear and sequential approach, Agile is an iterative and incremental approach. In practice this means that software created using Agile has development phases we perform several times with smaller chunks of implemented functionality. 

The two methodologies also have different approaches to testing . The waterfall methodology tests implementation very late in the process while Agile integrates tests for each iteration.

Another key difference is the two methodologies’ approach to stakeholders. When we use waterfall, the customer doesn’t see the implemented software until quite late in the project. When we use Agile, customers have the opportunity to follow the progress along the way.

Which methodology you choose will come down to the project’s context. Stable and well-defined projects may benefit more from the waterfall methodology and other projects affected by rapid changes may benefit more from Agile.

Built In’s expert contributor network publishes thoughtful, solutions-oriented stories written by innovative tech professionals. It is the tech industry’s definitive destination for sharing compelling, first-person accounts of problem-solving on the road to innovation.

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What is the Agile methodology?

The Agile methodology is a project management approach that involves breaking the project into phases and emphasizes continuous collaboration and improvement. Teams follow a cycle of planning, executing, and evaluating.

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Agile manifesto.

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Whereas the traditional "waterfall" approach has one discipline contribute to the project, then "throw it over the wall" to the next contributor, agile calls for collaborative cross-functional teams. Open communication, collaboration, adaptation, and trust amongst team members are at the heart of agile. Although the project lead or product owner typically prioritizes the work to be delivered, the team takes the lead on deciding how the work will get done, self-organizing around granular tasks and assignments.

Agile isn't defined by a set of ceremonies or specific development techniques. Rather, agile is a group of methodologies that demonstrate a commitment to tight feedback cycles and continuous improvement.

The original Agile Manifesto didn't prescribe two-week iterations or an ideal team size. It simply laid out a set of core values that put people first. The way you and your team live those values today – whether you do scrum by the book, or blend elements of kanban and XP – is entirely up to you.

Why choose agile?

Teams choose agile so they can respond to changes in the marketplace or feedback from customers quickly without derailing a year's worth of plans. "Just enough" planning and shipping in small, frequent increments lets your team gather feedback on each change and integrate it into future plans at minimal cost.

But it's not just a numbers game—first and foremost, it's about people. As described by the Agile Manifesto, authentic human interactions are more important than rigid processes. Collaborating with customers and teammates is more important than predefined arrangements. And delivering a working solution to the customer's problem is more important than hyper-detailed documentation.

An agile team unites under a shared vision, then brings it to life the way they know is best. Each team sets their own standards for quality, usability, and completeness. Their "definition of done" then informs how fast they'll churn the work out. Although it can be scary at first, company leaders find that when they put their trust in an agile team, that team feels a greater sense of ownership and rises to meet (or exceed) management's expectations.

Agile yesterday, today, and tomorrow

The publication of the Agile Manifesto in 2001 marks the birth of agile as a methodology. Since then, many agile frameworks have emerged such as scrum, kanban , lean , and Extreme Programming (XP). Each embodies the core principles of frequent iteration, continuous learning, and high quality in its own way. Scrum and XP are favored by software development teams, while kanban is a darling among service-oriented teams like IT or human resources.

Today, many agile teams combine practices from a few different frameworks, spiced up with practices unique to the team. Some teams adopt some agile rituals (like regular stand-ups, retros, backlogs, etc.), while others created a new agile practice ( agile marketing teams who adhere to the Agile Marketing Manifesto).

The agile teams of tomorrow will value their own effectiveness over adherence to doctrine. Openness, trust, and autonomy are emerging as the cultural currency for companies who want to attract the best people and get the most out of them. Such companies are already proving that practices can vary across teams, as long as they're guided by the right principles.

Atlassian on agile

The way each team practices agile should be unique to their needs and culture. Indeed, no two teams inside Atlassian have identical agile practices.

Although many of our teams organize their work in sprints, estimate in story points, and prioritize their backlogs, we're not die-hard practitioners of scrum. Or kanban. Or any other trademarked methodology. Instead, we give each team the autonomy to cherry-pick the practices that will make them most effective. And we encourage you to take a similar approach.

For example, if you're on a queue-oriented team like IT, kanban provides a solid foundation for your agile practice. But nothing should stop you from sprinkling in a few scrum practices like demo sessions with stakeholders or regular retrospectives.

The key to doing agile right is embracing a mindset of continuous improvement . Experiment with different practices and have open, honest discussions about them with your team. Keep the ones that work, and throw out the ones that don't.

How to use this site

Because we believe each team must forge their own path to agility, you won't find highly prescriptive information on this site. What you will find, however, is a no-nonsense guide to working iteratively, delivering value to your customers, and embracing continuous improvement. Read it, discuss it with your team, and make the changes that make sense to you.

You'll also find tutorials on pairing these practices with Jira , our project management tool for high-performing teams. Want to set up a kanban board ? Get insights from your team's velocity report? It's all here in the tutorials.

You're on the right path. Keep going!

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What is Software Engineering? Definition, Basics, Characteristics

What is Software Engineering?

Software engineering is defined as a process of analyzing user requirements and then designing, building, and testing software application which will satisfy those requirements.

Let’s look at the various definitions of software engineering:

• IEEE, in its standard 610.12-1990, defines software engineering as the application of a systematic, disciplined, which is a computable approach for the development, operation, and maintenance of software.
• Fritz Bauer defined it as ‘the establishment and used standard engineering principles. It helps you to obtain, economically, software which is reliable and works efficiently on the real machines’.
• Boehm defines software engineering, which involves, ‘the practical application of scientific knowledge to the creative design and building of computer programs. It also includes associated documentation needed for developing, operating, and maintaining them.’

Why Software Engineering? Software Crisis & its Solution

What was the software crisis.

• It was in the late 1960s when many software projects failed.
• Many software became over budget. Output was an unreliable software which is expensive to maintain.
• Larger software was difficult and quite expensive to maintain.
• Lots of software not able to satisfy the growing requirements of the customer.
• Complexities of software projects increased whenever its hardware capability increased.
• Demand for new software increased faster compared with the ability to generate new software.

All the above issues lead to ‘Software Crisis.’

The Solution

Solution was to the problem was transforming unorganized coding effort into a software engineering discipline. These engineering models helped companies to streamline operations and deliver software meeting customer requirements.

• The late 1970s saw the widespread uses of software engineering principles.
• In the 1980s saw the automation of software engineering process and growth of (CASE) Computer-Aided Software Engineering.
• The 1990s have seen an increased emphasis on the ‘management’ aspects of projects standard of quality and processes just like ISO 9001

Why Software Engineering is Popular?

Here are important reasons behind the popularity of software engineering:

• Large software – In our real life, it is quite more comfortable to build a wall than a house or building. In the same manner, as the size of the software becomes large, software engineering helps you to build software.
• Scalability- If the software development process were based on scientific and engineering concepts, it is easier to re-create new software to scale an existing one.
• Adaptability : Whenever the software process was based on scientific and engineering, it is easy to re-create new software with the help of software engineering.
• Cost- Hardware industry has shown its skills and huge manufacturing has lower the cost of the computer and electronic hardware.
• Dynamic Nature – Always growing and adapting nature of the software. It depends on the environment in which the user works.
• Quality Management : Offers better method of software development to provide quality software products.

Relationship of Software Engineering with Other Disciplines

Here, how software engineering related to other disciplines:

• Computer Science: Gives the scientific foundation for the software as electrical engineering mainly depends on physics.
• Management Science: Software engineering is labor-intensive work which demands both technical and managerial control. Therefore, it is widely used in management science.
• Economics: In this sector, software engineering helps you in resource estimation and cost control. Computing system must be developed, and data should be maintained regularly within a given budget.
• System Engineering: Most software is a component of a much larger system. For example, the software in an Industry monitoring system or the flight software on an airplane. Software engineering methods should be applied to the study of this type of systems.

Challenges of Software Engineering

Here are some critical challenges faced by software engineers:

• In safety-critical areas such as space, aviation, nuclear power plants, etc. the cost of software failure can be massive because lives are at risk.
• Increased market demands for fast turnaround time.
• Dealing with the increased complexity of software need for new applications.
• The diversity of software systems should be communicating with each other.

Attributes for Software Products

The characteristics of any software product include features which are displayed by the product when it is installed and put in use.

They are not the services which are provided by the product. Instead, they have related to the products dynamic behavior and the use made of the product.

Examples of these attributes are:

However, the relative importance of these characteristics varies from one software system to another.

Optimizing the above attribute is very challenging. For example, offering a better UI can reduce system efficiency.

Characteristics of Good Software

Any software should be judged by what it offers and what are the methods which help you to use it.

Every software must satisfy the following attributes:

Operational

Transitional

Maintenance

Here are some important characteristics of good software developed by software professionals

This characteristic let us know about how well software works in the operations which can be measured on:

• Dependability
• Correctness
• Functionality

This is an essential aspect when the software is moved from one platform to another:

• Interoperability
• Reusability
• Portability
• Adaptability

This aspect talks about how well software has the capabilities to adapt itself in the quickly changing environment:

• Flexibility
• Maintainability
• Scalability
• Software engineering is a process of analyzing user requirements and then designing, building, and testing software application which will satisfy that requirements
• Important reasons for using software engineering are: 1) Large software, 2) Scalability 3) Adaptability 4) Cost and 5) Dynamic Nature.
• In late 1960s many software becomes over budget. Therefore it offers unreliable software which is expensive to maintain.
• Software engineering concept 1) Computer Science 2) Management Science 3) System engineering and 4) Economics
• Increased market demands for fast turnaround time is the biggest challenges of software engineering field.
• 1)Maintainability, 2) Dependability, 3) Efficiency and, 4) Usability are the most important attributes of software products.
• Three most important characteristics of good software are 1) Operational 2)Transitional 3)Maintenance.
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