Software Development Life Cycle

The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process that outlines the stages involved in developing software applications. Each stage has specific tasks and deliverables, ensuring that the final product meets the required standards and satisfies user needs. Here are the key phases of the SDLC:

1. Planning:
   • Define the project goals, scope, and feasibility.
   • Conduct market research and gather requirements from stakeholders.
   • Create a project plan, including timelines and resource allocation.
2. Requirements Analysis:
   • Gather detailed functional and non-functional requirements.
   • Engage with stakeholders to clarify needs and expectations.
   • Document the requirements and create a requirements specification.
3. Design:
   • Develop architectural and system designs based on the requirements.
   • Create models, prototypes, and design specifications (UI/UX design).
   • Choose technology stacks and development tools.
4. Implementation (Coding):
   • Write the actual code based on the design specifications.
   • Follow coding standards and best practices.
   • Perform unit testing to ensure individual components function correctly.
5. Testing:
   • Conduct various testing phases, including integration, system, and user acceptance testing (UAT).
   • Identify and fix bugs or issues before deployment.
   • Validate that the software meets the defined requirements.
6. Deployment:
   • Release the software to the production environment.
   • Conduct user training and support to ensure a smooth transition.
   • Monitor the deployment for any immediate issues.

Maintenance:

1. Provide ongoing support and updates to the software.
2. Address bugs, performance issues, and user feedback.
3. Implement enhancements and new features as needed.

• This cycle can be iterative, especially in methodologies like Agile, where feedback and changes can be incorporated in shorter development cycles. The choice of the SDLC model (e.g., Waterfall, Agile, Spiral) often depends on project requirements, complexity, and stakeholder preferences.