Software development models are a part of software development life cycle (SDLC), which shows the navigation through the complex process of software design. To SaaS, all project’s elements mostly depend on the chosen model. In this series, under the viewpoint of an IT outsourcing company, we analyze 8 most popular software development models.
8 software development models
1. V-model
2. Agile
3. Scrum
4. Extreme Programming (XP)
5. Kanban
6. Rational Unified Process (RUP)
7. Spiral Model
8. Incremental and Iterative Model
1. V-model (Validation and Verification model)
The software development model V-model is a linear model, with each stage containing testing activities. That’s why it can be called “the Verification and Validation model". It is based on the correlation of a testing phase with each development step. Each stage is developed in conjunction with the testing process. The next phase begins only once the previous one has been completed, or there is a testing activity for each development activity.
This is one of the most expensive and time-consuming models due to its workflow. Although errors can be spotted early, fixing processes is still costly and difficult to implement.
2. Agile
Agile is one of the most popular software development models among IT outsourcing companies. Iterative development, intensive communication, and early client feedback are cores of Agile.
Each Agile iteration lasts several weeks. The team pay more attention to software testing activities than software documentation, which encourages rapid creation. Agile requires close collaboration among team members and with clients. Everyone analyzes the progress and re-evaluates the priority for the next step at the end of each iteration. These methods aim at improving the return on investment (ROI) and maintaining alignment with user needs & business goals.
3. Scrum
Considered a software development model, Scrum is actually an Agile subset. It is the most extensively used and lightweight agile development process framework. Scrum focuses on tight deadlines, complicated requirements, or a high level of uniqueness. Scrum projects progress through a series of revisions known as "sprints." Each sprint lasts 2-4 weeks and has careful plans. After agreeing on the sprint activities, people don't make any changes.
A scrum team typically consists of 5-9 persons. In an IT outsourcing team, everyone collaborates to finish tasks they have agreed to perform within a sprint. Scrum teams build a strong sense of community and a sense of "we're all in this together".
4. Extreme Programming (XP)
In the software development model Extreme Programming (XP), a typical iteration lasts 1-2 weeks. The requirements can still be changed even after the iteration has begun, which can affect the process software. In order to optimize IT outsourcing benefits, XP recommends pair programming, test-driven development and automation, continuous integration (CI), limited releases, simple software architecture, and coding standards compliance.
5. Kanban
The software development model Kanban focuses on visualizing the plan instead of significant iterations. The model is to keep track of all project activities, their quantity, responsible individuals, and progress. Increased transparency aids in a more accurate estimation of the most pressing tasks. Furthermore, because the model lacks a separate planning stage, a new change request can appear anytime. Communication with clients must be constant; they can review outcomes at any time, and project team meetings can take place daily. The model is common in software support and evolution projects due to its nature.
6. Rational Unified Process (RUP)
The software development model Rational Unified Process (RUP) is a hybrid of linear and iterative methodologies. Inception, elaboration, construction, and transition are the four phases of the software development process, according to the paradigm. Except for Inception, each step is normally completed in numerous iterations. All basic development activities (requirements, design, etc.) are carried out in parallel across these four RUP phases, though at varying intensities. RUP aids in the development of solid and flexible solutions, although it is still slower and less adaptive than a pure Agile group (Scrum, Kanban, XP, etc.). Depending on the project requirements, the level of client interaction, documentation intensity, and iteration length may vary.
7. Spiral Model
The software development model Spiral model emphasizes extensive risk analysis. To get the most out of the model, you'll need employees having a experience in risk evaluation. A typical Spiral iteration lasts about 6 months and includes 4 key activities: comprehensive planning, risk analysis, prototyping, and evaluation of previously delivered parts. Repeated spiral cycles significantly lengthen project timelines. In this model, clients are heavily involved. They can participate in the cycle's exploration and review stages, but cannot make any changes during the development stage.
8. Incremental and Iterative Model
The software development model Incremental and Iterative requires tiny amendments, the approach often involves some client input. The incremental development method contains multiple iterations. Each iteration adds new software modules, with no or minor changes to previously added components. The development process might be carried out either sequentially or concurrently. Parallel development speeds up delivery, however, numerous repeated cycles of sequential development can make a project long and expensive.
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