Stages of the software development life cycle or what is SDLC?

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Today I want to tell you what software life cycle stages exist using the example of the Software Life Cycle Model (SLCM) algorithm.

I propose to consider the main stages of the software life cycle using the simplest example – the development of an online clothing store.

What is SDLC?

SDLC is an algorithm for creating an IT product, which consists of 6 stages and covers the period from the moment the decision to develop it is made and ends when the software is no longer used.

Each stage builds on the results of the previous one and provides a pool of necessary instructions for completing the next one.

The main function of SDLC is to regulate and formalize the development process. This is important during team work, when dozens of specialists are involved.

Stages of the software development life cycle

The SDLC defines the tasks that an analyst or developer must perform at various stages. This ensures that the final product can meet the client's expectations and stay within the overall budget. Hence, it is essential for a developer to have prior knowledge about this software development process.

As mentioned above – SDLC model includes six stages development of any software. Let's look at each stage in more detail using the example of developing an online clothing store.

Stage 1: Requirements Planning and Analysis

Planning – an important step in everything, as in software development. Requirements analysis is also performed at this stage.

The information obtained from this analysis forms the building blocks of the basic design. Project quality is the result of planning.

Thus, at this stage, a basic design is developed taking into account all available information.

For our online store, at this stage we must complete the following steps: determine the goals of the project and requirements for the online store, perform a competitor analysis, determine the budget and timing of the project.

Step 2: Define Requirements

At this stage, all requirements for the target software are clarified.

These requirements receive approval from clients, market analysts and all stakeholders.

This is achieved through the use of software requirements specifications (SRS). This is a document that specifies all those things that need to be defined and created throughout the project cycle.

Various design layouts for the future application are created for our store, and analysts determine the technical requirements for the application.

Stage-3: Architecture Design

Thanks to the requirements that have been defined in the SRS, developers can select technologies for the project and design the future architecture.

An SRS (or any other clearly stated requirements document) is a reference for software developers to come up with the best software architecture.

Stage 4: Product Development

Then it runs itself development product.

For our online store, the necessary code is written, a database is created, payment systems and other necessary services are integrated in accordance with the developed project architecture.

This stage is usually the longest stage in the SDLC.

Stage 5: Product Testing and Integration

After developing a product, software testing is necessary to ensure its smooth operation.

At this stage, all possible deficiencies are monitored, corrected and rechecked.

This ensures that the product meets the SRS quality requirements.

For the store, tests are carried out to check the performance and security of the site, correct errors and eliminate shortcomings.

Also at this stage, the necessary documentation for the project is drawn up. The documentation contains information on how to use the product and a description of its main functionality.

Stage 6: Product Deployment and Maintenance

After detailed testing, the final product is released in stages according to the organization's strategy.

At this stage, the online store is deployed on the server, the domain name is configured, and final tests are carried out before launch. It is important to ensure its smooth operation.

Once the product is finally released into production, the product is monitored and supported to ensure smooth operation.

For the store, an analysis of the site’s operation is carried out, changes and modifications are made in accordance with user requirements.

There are more than 50 recognized SDLC models in use today. But none of them are perfect, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages for a specific software development project or team.

In the next article I will analyze in detail all the most popular software development models. In the meantime, let's answer the question – “Why do we actually need such a software development cycle?”

Why do we need SDLC?

SDLC is an approach that a software development organization follows when developing any software.

SDLC models were introduced to follow a disciplined and systematic method in software development.

In the software development life cycle, the software design process is divided into small parts, which makes the problem more understandable and easier to solve.

SDLC includes a detailed description or step-by-step plan for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software.

Conclusion

So now we know that software development based on the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is an important foundation for better and structured software development.

In a world full of rapid advancements in technology, SDLC stages play a crucial role in creating good and innovative solutions to help users and organizations.

At the end of the article, I propose to answer a few questions for a better understanding of the material:

1. What is SDLC?

2. What are the main stages of SDLC?

3. Why is SDLC important?

4. What are the main goals of SDLC?

Thanks to everyone who read this article to the end. Share your opinion in the comments. As I said above, in the following articles I will continue the topic of software development and analyze the main SDLC models.