It is evident that technology has infiltrated every aspect of human endeavor. We are rapidly dependent on it for our daily survival. As a result, software development and is becoming in demand because it is the backbone of technology. Every machine we see and use today is an offshoot of software development, and even in years to come, the story wouldn’t be any different.
The software development process is complex, but the results would be overwhelming if one develops an organized approach to it. Organizing the process means that each aspect is divided into tiny manageable bits. With dedication and commitment, you can embark on software development and avoid some fundamental errors bedeviling the system.
You’ll find these steps helpful when embarking on any software development project:
Conduct feasibility study
Like in other fields of study, you need to research your market to know if your invention is worth the stress. One of the critical steps to consider is to know if the need exists in the first place or not. If it doesn’t, scrap the idea, but if it does, identify it and determine whether your project can solve the problem. You can also determine the cost implication of carrying out the project and how you would recover your investment after the job is done.
Analyze and Determine the requirements
You don’t identify a problem without coming up with the resources to solve it. Analyzing the problem means that you interact with the end-users and prospective users. You can also undertake a thorough review of the intended software to understand the outstanding features and functionalities it should come with. At this point, you’ll know the cost implications of your project and how to raise funds.
Consider the industry best practices
When designing software, consider the industry’s best practices. Dr. Huizinga recommends a customized and agile process with emphasis on pictorial documentation for requirements and technical documentation. You must follow the standard template else; you would go overboard with your ideas, which would have ripple effects on your work.
Design
During the design stage, embedded companies or programmers put together a detailed design document that outlines how the software would meet a particular need. It is advisable to use mock-ups to accompany the design document to illustrate user-interface elements. In some cases, you may require customization to meet specific needs.
Measure and track the progress
If there is no proper technology infrastructure, it isn’t easy to collect and measure critical project data. As a result, software projects cannot be effectively managed. Project indicators help to ensure the prompt identification of existing or potential problems, thereby allowing them to be rectified early. When bugs are allowed to linger for a long time, they become problematic in the long run. These project indicators can be used to determine product quality and deployment readiness.
Development
The first five stages lead to the buildup of the sixth one. At the development stage, the design document is translated into actual software. If you have gotten the first five stages right, you ought not to make mistakes at this stage. At this point, you’re convinced that the invention would meet the needs of who it was intended for. Project managers usually demand feedback on the user experience, ease of use, task completion times, and other details related to the user interface.
Automation
After developing the software, the next step is to automate repetitive tasks like regression tests, static code analysis scans, and code builds. Automation reduces human-prone errors after the software is implemented. It also facilitates the use of best practices and the collection of project-related data.
Testing
When you’re done with the first seven stages, it is pertinent that you test what you have done so far. All the features should be tested to ensure they are functioning optimally. Testing also varies depending on the procedures adopted by the individual or organization. Testing is a broad subject that consists of staging and quality assurance. When the software is in general use, any bugs found at this point will be addressed critically, and urgent fixes would be done almost immediately.
Implementation
It is one thing to map out a plan, and it is another to implement it. Implementing all these tips above is critical to success. Understanding the importance of a well-thought-out development process places you at a competitive advantage over those who don’t know. If you have ever thought of being like the big wigs in your field, you should look back at those plans you failed to implement and see how they have contributed to your stagnation.
The software development process is a systematic one aimed at delivering the best to end users, it’s credo of development companies like Sirin Software. It is shaped and adjusted to meet market demands. What matters the most is that the final product gets to the customer exactly how they want it. Better still, the end product should exceed the customer’s expectations.