Software development and methods- Identifying the key differences
The process of software development undergoes multiple steps, and the major ones are planning, design, analysis, development, testing, and maintenance. Developing software is a time-consuming process, and it is necessary for developers to understand each and every step. Usually, the developers use traditional and agile methods during the software development process. In the case of the traditional method, the developers follow a linear approach and sequential order is followed so that the development process can be completed in a structured way. Hence, in the traditional method, the stages include documentation, system design, code testing, system testing, and user acceptance testing, bug fixes, and product delivery. Contrarily, in the case of the agile method, a team-based approach is used, and the purpose of using the agile method is to deliver the product along with the functional components. In other words, a sequential order is not used in the case of the agile method. Rather the application is completed hurriedly. In case the developers fail to complete the task while using the agile method, the task is again reprioritized. Hence, the different stages are revisited after considering the life cycle of software development. In the case of a usual agile approach, the steps followed by the developers are project initiation, sprint planning, and demos (Stoica, Mircea & Ghilic-Micu, 2013).
The traditional method might be advantageous because developers can visualize the steps, and everything is redefined before the initiation of the project. On the other hand, agile method is also considered advantageous because it provides greater flexibility and greater efficiency (Williams & Cockburn, 2003). The developers can easily make changes even when a project is undergoing. It would be easier for software developers to use the agile method because the method is less costly and more flexible than the traditional one. It would be reasonable to deploy the agile method if the project scope is not pre-defined. Often the software development process is unplanned and necessary changes should be made as soon as one encounters an issue.
Again, the traditional technique of software development follows a formal documentation process. While agile method mainly involves customer involvement. It means that customer input is a necessity during the software development process. Based on the customer requirements, a software application is supposed to be designed. However, customers have less involvement after the completion of new software. The customer sees the ultimate product. Nevertheless, the involvement of customers is high during the stages of agile development. They can review the steps and even provide recommendations for improvement. Customer satisfaction is highly valued. On the other hand, the traditional method employs a formal process and every phase is supposed to be well-documented. The traditional method is suitable in large corporations that strive upon formalization. In large enterprises, the requirements and specifications should be well defined before the initiation of a project. Contrarily, when an enterprise needs to release a product quickly in the market, it uses the agile technique. The enterprise can later make necessary changes as appropriate (Rao, Naidu & Chakka, 2011). Hence, agile method will be beneficial for small or medium-sized enterprises.
References
Rao, K. N., Naidu, G. K., & Chakka, P. (2011). A study of the Agile software development methods, applicability and implications in industry. International Journal of Software Engineering and its applications, 5(2), 35-45.
Stoica, M., Mircea, M., & Ghilic-Micu, B. (2013). Software Development: Agile vs. Traditional. Informatica Economica, 17(4).
Williams, L., & Cockburn, A. (2003). Agile software development: it’s about feedback and change. IEEE computer, 36(6), 39-43.