Top 4 software development methodologies

Software development is an intricate and exciting process. There is a lot that goes into each and every software development project, including input and effort from each valuable team member. What is really interesting about software development is that there are many different ways in which it can be conducted.

There are many software development methodologies out there, each with their own positives and challenges for each team behind them. There certainly isn’t only one way to look at a software development challenge and there isn’t only one way in which people are developing.

It is important to know about different software development methodologies in order to know what goes on behind the development scenes. If you want to get involved with a project of your own or you want to outsource to a software development company, then you will need to know your preferred methodology. What methodology is used in development has a big effect on its process and outcomes.

Which one do you like the most? Let’s find out.

What is a software development methodology?

Before we get started with our list of software development methodologies, it is key to outline what we mean by this term.

A methodology in software development is the approach or framework used to guide development. It will outline the way of working for the entire project. Methodologies can refer to techniques and tools used, roles given within the team, timelines, and overall modus operandi.

Different developers and development companies may have one specific methodology that they stick to for their work. Others may use a variety of methodologies. What matters the most is that the methodology matches the client and project outcomes. If it will get the job done in the most efficient way, then it is the right approach to use.

Let’s look at some of the options.

1. Agile

Agile is a big name in the software development field. It is one of the most popular methodologies on the market and it is used by many development teams across the world.

The main ethos of an Agile approach is efficiency. A project is run through “iterations” during which creation, testing and feedback are all included. Working in iterations allows Agile projects to find bugs and issues early on in a project and rectify them quickly. It also pushes the entire project along quicker so that the final product may enter the market early.

Agile teams are very collaborative both within their development team and with their clients. Feedback is a critical part of the process, as all progress needs to be matched directly with client intent and user requirements.

Agile takes training and expertise so expert hands within a software development company are needed to run such a project.

2. DevOps

DevOps is the merger of development and operations. It is a methodology that focuses on teamwork and collaboration between a mix of skilled and knowledgeable team members. A DevOps team can include developers, security experts, testers, automation architects, and so on, all in one place.

DevOps is a modern solution to the complexity of software projects. Software is something integral to a company and their operations, so why not cut out the middleman and include both development and operations in the same place?

It makes a lot of sense but it isn’t easy to pull off either. DevOps is an expert-level methodology that requires high levels of communication and efficiency, even after the project is completed as updates and maintenance are carried out.

3. Rapid application development (RAD)

As we know, the software development market is filled to the brim with competition. As such, software development companies need to have an edge over their competition to make their product survive and thrive. Rapid application development is a methodology created in direct response to this scenario.

RAD methodologies include four quick phases with a high focus on testing and a low focus on planning. The approach intends to build and launch workable software as quickly as possible while reducing costs and inefficiency. Prototyping is a big part of this methodology.

Rapid application development requires skilled hands that are able to work very efficiently towards a deadline. It might be a quick process but it is by no means an easy one.

4. Waterfall

The Waterfall model is a classic when it comes to software development methodologies. It is a more rigid structure that follows linear steps. Once a step has passed, you cannot return to it. As opposed to the more cyclical and flexible modern approaches to development, the Waterfall method is much more methodical and undeviating.

The benefits of the Waterfall methodology in development lie in its attention to detail and long-term potential for success. As such time is spent in each and every stage before you can move forward, you can guarantee that a lot of attention and diligence has gone into each one. It is also an accessible approach for many developers, even newcomers to the field. However, the approach does take longer and can be more costly than others. It all depends on the scope of your project and where your priorities lie.

You’re in good hands with 6B

To get the perfect results for your software development project, why not simply hand it over to our development experts at 6B?

Our team is proficient in picking the right methodology for your project and following it through to the end. We are client-focused and result-driven, meaning that they will always pick the very best option for you and your project.

If you want big results in software, chat with us today to get your own project started. You don’t need to worry about any more tricky decisions from here, we can handle them.

Talk to us about your next software project today