Software Development Life Cycle or SDLC models prescribe a step-by-step process to adhere to when designing, developing, testing and maintaining a software. Thus, the efficiency and success of the software depend on how religiously the procedures in the various stages are followed. The process of software design is broken down into small parts, and this makes the problem easier to solve.
How do software development life cycle models impact project efficiency and success?
The specific Software Development Model determines the project's efficiency in terms of time and cost, and its success in meeting stakeholder needs and quality standards.
Impact on Project Efficiency
- With the SDLC models, a structure that enhances competence is introduced and this directly contributes to project efficiency.
- Furthermore, models like Waterfall and V-Model are known to provide a roadmap, where project scope, timelines, cost and other aspects are listed. This reduces delays.
- The step-by-step approach of a SDLC model ensures full utilization of resources and tools associated with the software project.
- With the Spiral Model and Agile model, it is possible to perform continuous software testing. This in turn ensures the early detection of loopholes and bugs which can be fixed before it is too late.
Impact on Project Success
Results a project delivered become the yardstick to measure its success. Project success is generally measured based on factors like delivering a high-quality product that meets all requirements. Was the software project delivered as per the deadline and in the allotted budget are questions that also determine its success.
SDLC models have a major role to play in delivering these outcomes:
Rigorous testing that paves the way for high quality output: V-Model and Agile models are armed with the ability to ensure project testing alongside its development.
Superior Alignment with Requirements: When requirements are spelt out clearly and implemented right from the start, the desired project outcome is achieved. The Waterfall model for instance has a reputation of spelling out clear, stable, and fixed requirements right from the inception stage.
Transparency and Control: With SDLC models, registering milestones and tracking deliverables is an effortless process. This ensures transparency and performance monitoring.
Final Words
We can thus conclude that success of a software has a direct impact on selection and implementation of the appropriate software development life cycle model.
