System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

The System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a framework that defines the
stages involved in the creation of a software system. It provides a structured
approach to ensure quality, efficiency, and successful delivery of the final
product.
Here's a breakdown of the typical SDLC phases, along with visual
representations:
1. Planning and Initiation
 Goal: Define the project's scope, objectives, and feasibility.
 Activities:
o Identify the problem or opportunity.
o Conduct a feasibility study.
o Create a project charter.
2. Requirements Gathering and Analysis
 Goal: Understand the user's needs and expectations.
 Activities:
o Gather requirements through interviews, surveys, and workshops.
o Analyze and document requirements.
o Create use cases and user stories.
3. Design
 Goal: Define the system's architecture and components.
 Activities:
o Create high-level and detailed design documents.

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 o Choose appropriate technologies and tools.
o Develop system diagrams (e.g., UML, ERD).
4. Development
 Goal: Build the software system based on the design.
 Activities:
o Write code modules.
o Conduct unit testing.
o Integrate components.
5. Testing
 Goal: Ensure the software meets the specified requirements.
 Activities:
o Conduct integration testing.
o Perform system testing.
o Perform acceptance testing.
o Identify and fix defects.
6. Deployment
 Goal: Deliver the software to the users.
 Activities:
o Install the software on production servers.
o Provide user training.
o Monitor performance and stability.
7. Maintenance and Support

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  Goal: Maintain the software's functionality and address issues.
 Activities:
o Provide technical support.
o Perform regular maintenance.
o Implement updates and enhancements.
Note: The SDLC can be adapted to different project methodologies (e.g.,
Waterfall, Agile, DevOps). The specific phases and activities may vary
depending on the project's complexity and the organization's preferences.

SDLC Models
While the SDLC framework provides a general outline, there are several
specific models that organizations can follow. Here are some of the most
common ones:
1. Waterfall Model
 Description: A linear model where each phase is completed before
moving on to the next.
 Diagram:

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Waterfall Model in SDLC
2. Agile Model
 Description: Iterative and incremental model that emphasizes flexibility
and customer involvement.
 Diagram:

Agile Model in SDLC

3. V-Model
 Description: A verification and validation model that emphasizes quality
assurance throughout the SDLC.
 Diagram:

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V-Model in SDLC
4. Spiral Model
 Description: A risk-driven model that combines elements of waterfall
and prototyping.
 Diagram:

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Spiral Model in SDLC
5. Incremental Model
 Description: A model that delivers the system in increments, allowing
for early feedback and testing.
 Diagram:

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Incremental Model in SDLC
6. RAD (Rapid Application Development) Model
 Description: A model that uses prototyping and rapid development
techniques to create systems quickly.
 Diagram:

RAD Model in SDLC

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Choosing the right SDLC model depends on factors such as:
 Project size and complexity
 Team experience and expertise
 Organizational culture and preferences
 Project constraints and deadlines
It's important to note that these models are not mutually exclusive.
Organizations may combine elements of different models to tailor the SDLC to
their specific needs.

The System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a framework that defines the
stages involved in the creation of a software system. It provides a structured
approach to ensure quality, efficiency, and successful delivery of the final
product.
There are several different SDLC models, each with its own unique
approach and advantages:
 Waterfall Model: A linear model where each phase is completed before
moving on to the next.
 Agile Model: An iterative and incremental model that emphasizes
flexibility and customer involvement.
 V-Model: A verification and validation model that emphasizes quality
assurance throughout the SDLC.
 Spiral Model: A risk-driven model that combines elements of waterfall
and prototyping.
 Incremental Model: A model that delivers the system in increments,
allowing for early feedback and testing.

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  RAD (Rapid Application Development) Model: A model that uses
prototyping and rapid development techniques to create systems quickly.
The choice of SDLC model depends on factors such as project size and
complexity, team experience and expertise, organizational culture and
preferences, and project constraints and deadlines.

SDLC Model Advantages and Disadvantages

Waterfall Model
Advantages:
 Simple and easy to understand
 Clear phases and deliverables
 Suitable for small projects with well-defined requirements
Disadvantages:
 Rigid and inflexible
 Difficult to accommodate changes
 High risk of project failure if requirements are not accurately defined
upfront
Agile Model
Advantages:
 Flexible and adaptable to changes
 High customer satisfaction
 Early delivery of working software
 Reduced risk of project failure

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Disadvantages:
 Requires a high level of team collaboration and self-organization
 Can be challenging to manage in large projects
 May not be suitable for projects with strict deadlines or regulatory
requirements
V-Model
Advantages:
 Strong emphasis on quality assurance
 Early identification and prevention of defects
 Suitable for projects with high quality standards
Disadvantages:
 Can be time-consuming and costly
 Less flexible than other models
 May not be suitable for projects with rapidly changing requirements
Spiral Model
Advantages:
 Risk-driven approach
 Early identification and mitigation of risks
 Suitable for large, complex projects
 Can be adapted to different project methodologies
Disadvantages:
 Can be complex and difficult to manage

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  Requires experienced project managers
 May not be suitable for small, simple projects
Incremental Model
Advantages:
 Early delivery of working software
 Reduced risk of project failure
 Easier to manage changes
 Suitable for projects with evolving requirements
Disadvantages:
 Can be challenging to coordinate multiple increments
 May require additional resources and effort
RAD (Rapid Application Development) Model
Advantages:
 Fast development and delivery
 High customer satisfaction
 Suitable for projects with short timelines
 Can be used to create prototypes for evaluation
Disadvantages:
 May not be suitable for large, complex projects
 Requires skilled developers and tools
 Can be challenging to maintain long-term

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