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Top 15 Software Development Methodologies – Advantages & Disadvantages

Software Development Methodologies

Developing a delightful, capable, and reliable software product is a team effort, usually made over a long period of time. Sometimes, it may take years to develop the perfect software. This is where knowing which of the software development lifecycle methodologies to adopt becomes critical to success.

What are the Software Development Methodologies?

The structured processes that govern the development of software right from the ideation stage to its delivery are called software development methodologies.

Without the right processes in place, completing a long-term project on time is an incredibly challenging task. This is especially true when multiple contributors and stakeholders are involved in the project, which is the case for most software development undertakings.

For this reason, having a well-defined system is vital for the success of software development teams.

Different teams working on different kinds of projects may encounter different sets of problems and challenges. This is why there is no one-size-fits-all software development methodology that guarantees success. Instead, the kind of technologies a team is working with, the intricacies of the project, and the size of the team can influence the choice of a software development methodology.

Software development methodologies have moved from an attitude of code & fix to modern methods that have made planning as well as a discipline a routine.

Typically, software teams have 15 choices when choosing between different software development lifecycle methodologies.

Top 15 Software Development Methodologies List

We would like to list down all the 15 software development methodologies we will be covering in this blog, The methodologies discussed below, are not presented in any particular order.

  1. Big Bang Model Methodology
  2. Prototype Model Methodology
  3. Waterfall Model Methodology
  4. Agile Software Development Methodology
  5. Rapid Application Development (RAD) Methodology
  6. Dynamic Systems Development Model Methodology
  7. Spiral Model Methodology
  8. Extreme Programming Methodology
  9. Feature Driven Development (FDD) Methodology
  10. Joint Application Development (JAD) Methodology
  11. Lean Development Methodology
  12. Rational Unified Process Methodology
  13. Scrum Methodology
  14. V-Shaped Model Methodology
  15. Iterative Model Methodology

In this article, all fifteen will be discussed in detail. The objective is to help build a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages associated with different software development lifecycle methodologies.

Let’s begin:

1. Big Bang Model Methodology

This model does not follow any trend in software development and this is usually implemented when the client is not aware of what his requirements are or how they should shape up. The Big Bang Model is used for smaller projects. This is a very simple model and no formal procedures are employed in the development process.

Advantages of Big Bang Model

Disadvantages of Big Bang Model

2. Prototype Model Methodology

Software development means that there are processes involved in the creation of a program until its release and maintenance stages. Understanding the requirements of the software and conducting relevant market research aid in the creation of a prototype of the software.

As the name suggests, teams that employ the Prototype development approach first roll out a prototype of the actual finished product to the users. Then, feedback is collected.

Based on the collected feedback, interactions are introduced to the product till the point where the users find it satisfactory. This continuous evaluation and improvement of the prototype lead to the development of a flawless finished product. At the same time, excessive iterations can lead to delays in the delivery of the project.

The key to achieving success with this development methodology lies in the effective communication between the developers and the users (testers). The Prototype development approach works best for projects where there are many unknown variables at work, like online platforms meant for a large number of users.

This prototype then undergoes a development process. This kind of software development methodology allows developers to create a prototype of the solution that they visualize so that the clients can see how it will run. Any modification can be added before the actual software is developed.

A typical prototype methodology flows in the following way – the requirements create a prototype/design concept and is shown to the client for an evaluation and review, then the updates and changes if any are addressed before the actual development process and test phases and finally, the maintenance stage is reached. As an example, Structural engineers can, with the assistance of prototypes, create a new design and then conduct tests on it to understand the design’s resilience to vibration, noise, etc. A prototype model can help to catch problems that one cannot avoid in a waterfall-type model.

Advantages of Prototype Model

Disadvantages of Prototype Model

3. Waterfall Model Methodology

This model is traditional and is also used commonly.  It is also referred to as the traditional/conventional approach and is more of a classical form of the process of software development. When one conducts a software development methodologies comparison, it becomes clear that the Waterfall development methodology is one of the simplest ones. The methodology approaches the different stages of the development process in a linear, sequential manner.

The Waterfall model uses an approach that has 5 sequential and important stages of SDLC. These stages include

The linear sequential flow in the Waterfall model means that the next stage in the development process commences only if the previous stage/process is completed and definitely involves detailed documentation and verification of all the requirements. There is no set method to return to the earlier phase in case there are changes in the requirements. This model is also known as a heavyweight methodology as the processes are long and are quite inflexible. Waterfall Model is not very accepting of change but it does have some unique features as listed below.

Only once a step has been completed can the developers start working on the next step. Most Waterfall processes are implemented in a manner that once a step is completed, there is no turning back.

This makes the Waterfall development methodology inflexible and, thus, not suitable for projects that have evolving requirements. Instead, it is the ideal choice for inexperienced teams that are working on clearly defined projects with a clear end product as their objective.

Advantages of Waterfall Model

Disadvantages of Waterfall Model

4. Agile Software Development Methodology

Agile is perhaps the most well-known on this software development methodologies list, and for a good reason. As the name suggests, Agile methodology offers incredible adaptability and flexibility, both extremely valuable qualities for the success of development projects.

Teams that employ the Agile methodology divide long tasks into smaller “sprints” that can be completed within about one to four weeks. As the development progresses, teams using the Agile methodology also conduct tests consistently to identify necessary iterations.

Agile methodology puts the end-user at the heart of the process. Developers continually take feedback from customers to improve the end product during the different stages of development. This makes Agile a perfect choice for teams developing a product for a new, unexplored niche.

With that said, there are a few limitations of the Agile methodology as well. The change requests and testing can potentially overwhelm small teams, and discussions dedicated to collecting feedback can also be time-consuming. Documentation is also not a priority for teams that employ the Agile methodology. Lack of properly structured documentation can give rise to challenges in the later stages of development.

Your project requires you to be flexible and be able to make changes in order to be successful in a turbulent and unforeseen environment. That’s where Agile comes into the picture. Agile is one of the most widely used software development methodologies. It is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of different methods and practices. These methods are based on the values as well as principles that are expressed in the Agile manifesto. Solutions are expected to evolve as cross-functional teams make use of various required practices for the need of the project during the software development life cycle. That leads to prompt as well as flexible responses to change in the process of software development.

Advantages of Agile Software Development Methodology

Disadvantages of Agile Software Development Methodology

5. Rapid Application Development (RAD) Methodology

The Rapid Application Development methodology is a way towards faster processing of software. This is achieved by developing functions parallel and then integrating them into a working prototype. This SDLC method promises results of higher quality along with much quicker results which is why it is known as Rapid Application Development. With clients and end-users actively taking part in the development process makes this a very user-friendly development process. Any risks that development in the process can be dealt with and even changes in the customer’s requirements can be incorporated easily. Developers can easily put checks in place to prevent any major problem in the software creation process and this process also requires and encourages clients and other users for their feedback.

Advantages of Rapid Application Development Methodology

Disadvantages of Rapid Application Development Methodology

Also read our post on Software Development Outsourcing

6. Dynamic Systems Development Model Methodology

This methodology of software development is part of the Agile Development methodologies where each individual methodology has its own principles and a unique approach.

The Dynamic Systems development methodology is a result of the evolution of software development methodologies. The methodology builds on and improves an old development methodology known as Rapid Application Development.

The Dynamic Systems Development methodology involves four steps:

Like its predecessor, the Dynamic Systems Development methodology is heavily dependent on efficient and insightful user feedback to enable the creation of a delightful software product.

This methodology is ideal for big organizations and teams that struggle with productivity challenges. Implementation of the Dynamic Systems development methodology can potentially streamline the development process by enabling progressive iterations and effective communication.

These also have similar features to each other like goal orientation, lightness, flexibility, and a focus on continuous development. The DSDM methodology is based on the RAD model and encourages involvement by the user. Among its goals is to develop and provide software models within the specified budget and within the deadlines. The thought that governs Dynamics Systems Development Methodology is that software development is a constantly changing process as it needs more than one attempt to gain success.

Advantages of Dynamic Systems Development Model

Disadvantages of Dynamic Systems Development Model

7. Spiral Model Methodology

Developing software is similar to converting a creative concept into a functional and practical system. Unlike a waterfall model, a spiral method allows the developer to make changes in the code or in the design even in the testing phase. The Spiral Methodology moves in a loop that is circular, checking the phases of the design until the developer is satisfied. Alterations if any are made and quality checks are performed side by side. With the Spiral model, there is the assurance of early detection of risks to the project with steps to reduce them. With the Spiral method of software development, a developer will start on a small scale, estimate the risks then find ways to eliminate these risks before deciding whether the project is feasible to continue. Good management is very important to the Spiral Method.

Advantages of Spiral Model

Disadvantages of Spiral Model

8. Extreme Programming Methodology

This is a flexible method that allows changes to be made with changes in requirements. This methodology is based on 4 main activities which are Coding, Testing, Listening, and Designing. All these meet together to create software that benefits the client’s requirements. Extreme Programming is best when software is required to be created within an unstable environment. Software developers working with XP Methodology during SDLC are able to deliver in shorter time frames than most other methodologies. XP Methodology also encourages feedback from their clients and this feedback is collated by testing the system and from inputs by other developers working on the same project as well as from the client directly.

Advantages of Extreme Programming Methodology

Disadvantages of Extreme Programming Methodology

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9. Feature Driven Development (FDD) Methodology

With the implementation of the FDD methodology, the development process is broken down on the basis of the different features needed for the final product. Then, development teams plan, design, build and optimize each feature based on feedback from users. Typically, the entire process that goes into developing a feature is completed within a span of two weeks.

As a result, teams that employ FDD are able to roll out great products in relatively shorter time spans while maintaining detailed documentation of the process.

This kind of software development uses the repetitive method also known as an iterative method along with object-based technology. This has found favor with larger teams of developers who work on projects that are progressing from working in phases to this iterative approach. An FDD model works by tracking the milestones that are kept for every stage of the progress in the software development with its 5 simple processes and these are

FDD starts with a review of the scope of the system before domain models are created in great detail for each feature and reviewed again. The selected domain models are then merged into an overall single model.

The FDD methodology is best suited to large teams that are developing complex products and depends heavily on the management ability of the lead developer for success.

Advantages of Feature Driven Development Methodology

Disadvantages of Feature Driven Development Methodology

10. Joint Application Development (JAD) Methodology

This methodology involves the end-user in the development and the design of the software development with the help of interactive workshops. These workshops are also known as JAD sessions. This is thought to have a higher customer satisfaction rate as the client is involved at every stage of the process of development. With its main focus on business solutions over technical ones, this is a popular methodology used for clients with growing businesses. This methodology was initially designed for computer-based systems but has been successfully used for all kinds of development processes.

Advantages of Joint Application Development Methodology

Disadvantages of Joint Application Development Methodology

11. Lean Development Methodology

Inspired by the Lean manufacturing principles laid out by car manufacturer Toyota, the Lean development methodology reduces wastage while improving the productive output of development teams.

In most cases, the Lean methodology only works for teams that employ highly skilled developers that truly have what it takes to identify and eliminate the biggest bottlenecks. However, teams that are able to implement this methodology successfully can potentially reduce the time and the cost associated with the development project by eliminating all that adds no value to the development process. This could include meetings, documentation, etc, and emphasizes imbibing quality in the process.

Teams employing the Lean methodology are tasked with finding and eliminating bottlenecks. At the same time, developers must also identify the tasks that will have the most positive influence on the progress of the project.

The Lean development methodology is ideal for small but skilled teams working on small projects with tight deadlines.

Advantages of Lean Development Methodology

Disadvantages of Lean Development Methodology

12. Rational Unified Process Methodology

This Methodology works on the principle of dividing the process flow into 4 distinct parts. These are mainly Analysis and Design, Business Modelling, Deployment, Implementation, and Testing. The major difference between Rational Unified Process and the others is that the RUP provides its developers with tools like templates, guidelines, and step-by-step processes and examples for all the stages in the software development process. This process also continuously monitors the quality of the software being created and controls changes.

Advantages of Rational Unified Process Methodology

Disadvantages of Rational Unified Process Methodology

13. Scrum Methodology

The Scrum methodology is quite similar to the Agile methodology. Like Agile methodology, Scrum also enables quick, efficient, and continuous iterations to the product during the different phases of development. This allows teams to deliver flawless products in a short time period.

Unlike Agile, however, Scrum is dependent on a product owner, a Scrum Master, and a development team. The development team takes care of the actual development; the Scrum Master ensures everyone on the team is familiar with the Scrum process, and the product owner is responsible for communicating feedback and client needs to the team.

Implementation of the Scrum methodology also involves daily Scrum meetings that ensure that everyone in the team is on the same page and that the project is progressing as planned.

One of the most famous and widely used software development methodologies, Scrum, is a framework that makes use of the Agile software development methodology. This framework is flexible and encourages collaborative ways of managing a software project. One of the benefits of this method is that it allows you to move quickly and pivot easily when needed. Faster feedback cycles and the ability to recognize problems early have made Scrum one of the most popular methodologies around.

Advantages of Scrum Methodology

Disadvantages of Scrum Methodology

14. V-Shaped Model Methodology

The processes that are a part of this methodology are in a V-shaped sequential manner. This process is also known as the Validation and Verification process. This is because there is a corresponding test phase for every stage of the development process. This methodology is ideal for projects that are small to medium-sized as the requirements are usually fixed. This also works best when technical resources are in plenty. There are basically 4 steps that are involved in the V Model and these are Unit Testing, Integration Testing, System Testing, and Acceptance testing. Each requirement and planning phase has a test phase running parallel to it.

Advantages of V-Shaped Model

Disadvantages of V-Shaped Model

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15. Iterative Model Methodology

This model is different from the other as it does not start by specifying the requirements of the whole process but instead; just a part of the software is specified and implemented and this is reviewed before any further steps are taken. This Model breaks down the software development of a large requirement into smaller more manageable parts. The designing, development, and testing are done in a repetitive cycle. As this is repeated each and every cycle of the model gets a new software version produced. There is a working version that is ready quite at the beginning of the process that is tested; evaluated and further additional requirements are then identified.

Advantages of Iterative Model

Disadvantages of Iterative Model

Conclusion

These were the fifteen most popular development methodologies that top teams worldwide employ to build amazing products. As new and unique problems present themselves, new software development methodologies will continue to emerge. The key is to choose the right methodology that aligns with the business objectives and offers the processes needed to overcome unique business challenges.

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