What is Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
The SDLC is a framework that allows you to break down the process of developing software into phases, each with its own goals and deliverables. It's a way to plan out your project from start to finish so that you can be sure you're getting the most value out of your time spent writing code.During this time, the development of large-scale software systems was becoming increasingly complex, and there was a need for a structured approach to software development. The first SDLC models were developed during this period, including the Waterfall model, which is still widely used today.
In the Waterfall model, the development process is divided into distinct phases, with each phase building on the results of the previous one. The phases typically include requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance. This model provided a structured approach to software development that was easy to follow and allowed for better control of the development process.
How does the SDLC work?
1. Planning
The first phase of the SDLC process is planning. During this phase, the development team works closely with stakeholders to identify the goals of the software application, the scope of the project, and any risks that may affect the project's success. Additionally, the team outlines the project budget, timelines, and any other factors that may impact the project.
2. Requirements Gathering
The second phase of the SDLC process is requirements gathering. This phase involves identifying and documenting the functional and non-functional requirements of the software application. These requirements are the foundation for the design, development, and testing of the software application.
3. Design
The design phase involves the creation of a blueprint for the software application. The development team creates the application's architecture, defines its components, and establishes how the components will interact with one another. Additionally, the team creates a prototype of the user interface and designs the software's code structure.
4. Implementation
The implementation phase is where the actual coding and development of the software application take place. The development team writes the code, integrates the components, and creates the final version of the software application.
5. Testing
The testing phase is where the software application is thoroughly tested to ensure it meets the project's goals and requirements. This phase involves several types of testing, including functional testing, regression testing, and load testing, to name a few. Testing helps to identify any bugs or issues in the software application before it is released to end users.
6. Maintenance
The maintenance phase is the final phase of the SDLC process. During this phase, the development team ensures the software application continues to function correctly after it has been released. The team may fix any bugs or issues that arise, make enhancements to the software application, or perform updates to ensure compatibility with new technologies.