After defining the different types of SDLC models let us now
talk about the advantages and disadvantages of them so that we will have a
clearer view on what is the best model to use while on a
custom software development project. Let us start on the Waterfall Model.
Waterfall Model
Waterfall model is a classic SDLC model and has been the
basis of the other
methodologies. Advantages of this model include;
·
It is easy to use
·
It can be easily interpreted and understand
·
It can provide developers with a clear view of
the structure of the project. It can also assist inexperienced members of the
group for them to easily understand the processes and actions that have to be
done.
·
Milestones are easily understood by the team. So
they can focus on what to do.
·
Stability for the requirement is also observed.
·
It is good for controlling the entire project
management team.
·
This process is recommended when quality is
essential compared to the cost and schedule.
Disadvantages:
·
Project requirements must be identified upfront.
Since this process follows a sequential linear flow, project requirements
identified at later point cannot be easily appended to the project.
·
This model does not allow iterations. Therefore
there is no problem solving nature in this process. All of the needed information must be
gathered first before doing a custom software development.
·
There are no
prototypes hence the customer will only
see the project at the end once the developed software and application is done.
When to Use Waterfall Model
Based on the advantages and disadvantages above, this SDLC
model is useful if all of the requirements are evidently known. Thus, thorough
research and interviews must be done in order to collect the needed data in the
application development process. This model is also ideal on products and
services that are firm and stable. It also requires that the software developers
are geared with excellent software development skills in order to come up on a
powerful and useful application.
The Waterfall model can also be used if the customer already
has existing software that need to have a new version or update or an existing
product that has to be imported on a new platform.
With a lot of the methodologies it might be difficult on
what to choose. The important thing is that the SDLC model that you will use
will work appropriately on your custom application and software development
project.
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