Software development is a complex process that requires careful planning, execution, and management, and must also answer to the demands for speed imposed by the market. To quickly and successfully deliver software products, developers and companies often turn to the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
This guide discusses the purpose and benefits of the Software Development Lifecycle.
What is the purpose of the software development life cycle?
The SDLC is an innovative process used to create software. It allows developers to build successful software on time and within budget by breaking up the traditionally long and tedious lifecycle of software development and allowing programmers to work on every stage at the same time. The SDLC aims to ensure quality and consistency, mitigate risks, and create successful software products.
Let’s take a look at the benefits of the SDLC.
Increases Visibility
In the SDLC, each phase has specific milestones and requires set deliverables. Every action is tracked, and every stage is monitored. Thus, stakeholders can see progress at any point and see how resources are allocated in pursuit of the goals.
Clarifies the Design
The SDLC only allows developers to move from one stage to another once the prior stage is complete and approval is given by project management. There is a formal review at the end of each stage. This pacing and degree of oversight ensures everyone is on the same page about the project design. It also ensures that the project will stay on track throughout its development.
Improves Quality Assurance
The SDLC integrates rigorous testing and validation at every stage, and the product must be verified and reviewed thoroughly before moving on to the next stage. Plus, there are many checks and balances built into the process. Together, these features ensure the software meets the highest quality standards.
Improves Organization and Outcomes
The SDLC follows an iterative set of seven organized procedures to generate effective, compelling, innovative, and profitable digital systems. The structure of SDLC makes it easier for companies to stick to timelines and budgets and ensures deliverables are fulfilled. The layers of checks and balances reduce the risk of going off track. Overall, the process is more oriented towards results, leading to a more favorable ROI.
Simplifies the Complex Process
Developing a software product from scratch can be an immensely complex process unless developers use SDLC. SDLC simplifies the process with clear, staged procedures that ensure the final product fulfills the goals and meets high-quality standards.
Improves Transparency and Control
The SDLC improves management and control over the entire process. The staged approach to the process offers more clarity about requirements and makes it easier for everyone to be on the same page and share a single vision of a product.
Enables Proactive Risk Management
Through the SDLC, developers can identify and manage risks early in the development process. The proactive approach to issues prevents costly and time-consuming problems from arising late in the project.
Improves Consistency
The SDLC’s well-defined process and guidelines lead to more predictable and consistent results. The predictability is helpful for both developers and stakeholders who rely on consistency to build trust and increase brand recognition.
Streamlines Handoffs
The SDLC forces projects to be so well organized that team members can easily hand off the project from one person to another. When following the SDLC, developers must maintain a well-documented paper trail of the project. This makes it easy for new team members to quickly onboard and contribute to the project.
Cost Effective
The structure and speed of the SDLC process make it easier for companies to stick to a budget. SDLC allows for a well-organized plan so stakeholders can see all the timetables and costs. Plus, project members can submit work to an integrated system that flags items past due and spends less time micromanaging and more time improving efficiency and production.
Improves Flexibility
Even amidst a great amount of structure, the SLDC allows for ample flexibility. One of the best examples of flexibility in the SDLC is the way in which each stage can repeat until the project is ready to be released.
Enhances Stakeholder Satisfaction
The SDLC ensures all stakeholders are actively involved throughout the development process. By soliciting feedback and addressing concerns, the SDLC improves stakeholder satisfaction. Additionally, the SDLC leads to quality products that satisfy customers.
Encora’s SDLC Solutions
Fast-growing tech companies partner with Encora to outsource product development and drive growth. We are deeply expert in the various disciplines, tools, and technologies that power the emerging economy, and this is one of the primary reasons that clients choose Encora over the many strategic alternatives that they have.
To leverage the Software Development Lifecycle, contact Encora.
