The Software Development Process

The Software Development Process

1. Waterfall model

   • Deliverable are produced at the end of each stage
   • One stage must be completed before the next stage commences
   • There is a sequence of distinct stages for example Aanlysis
   • If an error is found during one stage a previous stage may have to be reworked

2. Rapid application development (RAD)

   • An iterative development process
   • A preliminary data model is developed and a user interface developed
   • There are strict deadlines set for each refinement
   • User requirements functionality are prioritised as essential and non-essential

3. Prototyping

   • A first-cut model is developed and evaluated by the users who provide feedback to the developer
   • There are two types; evolutionary and throw-away
   • The model is repeatedly refined and evaluated
   • The iteration stops when the user is satisfied
   • Functionality is added

4. Role of developer and end user

   • Waterfall model
     • Limited involvement as all requirements must be known from the start
     • Only involved in analysis, acceptance testing and review
   • Prototyping
     • End user is continually involved throughout
     • The user is involved right from the start of the project in helping the systems analyst define some preliminary requirements
     • The user tests each version of the prototype and provides feedback to the analyst
   • ICT developer - responsible for analysis, project managing and programming

5. Technical documentation

   • It is needed during the development of the system so that the system can be developed to meet the system requirements
   • It is needed during system maintenance so that the system can be corrected to meet the user's requirements