Software Development Life Cycle

Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process used to plan, design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain software. It helps teams build high-quality software efficiently while reducing costs and minimizing errors.

Phases of SDLC

1. Requirement Gathering and Analysis Understand the client's needs and business goals. Gather functional and non-functional requirements. Prepare a Software Requirement Specification (SRS) document.

Example: An online shopping website requires user registration, product search, cart, and payment features.

1. Planning Estimate time, budget, and resources. Identify risks and create a project schedule. Decide the development approach (Agile, Waterfall, etc.).

Output: Project Plan

1. System Design Design the software architecture and user interface. Create database design, flowcharts, and system diagrams.

Output: Design Document

1. Development (Coding) Developers write the source code based on the design. Different modules are developed and integrated.

Output: Working software

1. Testing Test the software to identify and fix defects. Ensure all requirements are met.

Types of Testing:

Unit Testing
Integration Testing
System Testing
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

1. Deployment Release the software to users or customers. Install it on production servers.

Example: Publishing a website or mobile app.

1. Maintenance Fix bugs found after release. Add new features and improve performance. Update the software based on user feedback.

Advantages of SDLC

Produces high-quality software.
Reduces development cost and time.
Improves project management.
Detects errors early.
Ensures customer satisfaction.
Provides clear documentation.

Common SDLC Models
Waterfall Model – Sequential approach where each phase is completed before the next begins.
Agile Model – Iterative development with frequent customer feedback.
Spiral Model – Focuses on risk analysis and repeated iterations.
V-Model – Testing is planned alongside each development phase.
Incremental Model – Software is developed and delivered in small increments.