Introduction
Software Development Cycle
The iterative process starts with a simple implementation of a small set of the software requirements and iteratively enhances the evolving versions until the complete system is implemented and ready to be deployed.
An iterative life cycle model does not attempt to start with a full specification of requirements. Instead, development begins by specifying and implementing just part of the software, which is then reviewed to identify further requirements. This process is then repeated, producing a new version of the software at the end of each iteration of the model.
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Breakdown a requirement into multiple cycles of development
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Results in multiple builds of the same requirement in sub components.
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Final nth build will be used to make up the main release.
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Subset of incremental model where each increment is developed using iterative model.
The Spiral Model provides a systematic and iterative approach to software development. In its diagrammatic representation, it looks like a spiral with many loops. The exact number of loops of the spiral is unknown and can vary from project to project. Each loop of the spiral is called a phase of the software development process.
Each Spiral phase is typically broken into four main quadrants. Activity is broken into cycles of 4 phases, with each phase consisting of different sub-activities to ensure all necessary tasks are completed before moving to the next quadrant. The phases are them repeated again in the next cycle.
Evolutionary models in software engineering are iterative and incremental approaches that allow for the development of software systems through a series of iterations or releases. These models emphasize adaptability and flexibility, allowing for changes to be made throughout the development process.
An evolutionary model involves breaking down the software development process into smaller, manageable increments or iterations. Each iteration involves the completion of a subset of the overall software requirements, allowing for continuous testing, feedback, and refinement. This approach enables the software to evolve and improve over time, as new requirements and insights emerge.
What is Dev Ops?
DevOps combines development (DEV) and operations (OPS) to increase the efficiency, speed, and security of software development and delivery compared to traditional processes. A more nimble software development lifecycle results in a competitive advantage for businesses and their customers.
DevOps can be best explained as people working together to conceive, build and deliver secure software at top speed. DevOps practices enable software development (dev) and operations (ops) teams to accelerate delivery through automation, collaboration, fast feedback, and iterative improvement. Stemming from an Agile approach to software development, a DevOps process expands on the cross-functional approach of building and shipping applications in a faster and more iterative manner.
In adopting a DevOps development process, you are making a decision to improve the flow and value delivery of your application by encouraging a more collaborative environment at all stages of the development cycle. DevOps represents a change in mindset for IT culture. In building on top of Agile, lean practices, and systems theory, DevOps focuses on incremental development and rapid delivery of software. Success relies on the ability to create a culture of accountability, improved collaboration, empathy, and joint responsibility for business outcomes.
Agile vs Waterfall
What is Agile?
Agile is a lean, modern approach to software development, created essentially as a solution-response to the drawbacks of previous methodologies. Given the name, Agile emphasizes on early-delivery of the product and supports adaptive and flexible changes that can be made at any point in the project's lifecycle.
Agile methodologies contain a wide range of different forms: Scrum, Extreme Programming (XP), Feature-Driven Development (FDD) and Crystal.
What is Waterfall?
Waterfall is a traditional method of software development that functions in a sequential format of development. It entails a step-by-step progression of the process, where each phase proceeds in a linear manner, making it easy to manage and understand.
Agile is an iterative approach to software development, emphasizing flexibility and collaboration among cross-functional teams. It focuses on delivering small, incremental releases, adapting to changes throughout the development process.
In contrast, Waterfall is a linear and sequential approach, where each phase must be completed before moving to the next. Changes are difficult to incorporate once a phase is completed. Agile promotes adaptability and customer feedback, while Waterfall provides a structured plan but may struggle with accommodating changes late in the development cycle.