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What Is The Software Development Life Cycle

The document discusses the software development life cycle (SDLC), which consists of 7 phases: planning, defining requirements, design and prototyping, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. It explains each phase in detail and compares different SDLC models like waterfall, agile, iterative, and DevOps. The overall purpose is to guide non-technical founders through the process of developing software by understanding the key phases and collaborating with technical teams.

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Rizwan Ahmad
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136 views3 pages

What Is The Software Development Life Cycle

The document discusses the software development life cycle (SDLC), which consists of 7 phases: planning, defining requirements, design and prototyping, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. It explains each phase in detail and compares different SDLC models like waterfall, agile, iterative, and DevOps. The overall purpose is to guide non-technical founders through the process of developing software by understanding the key phases and collaborating with technical teams.

Uploaded by

Rizwan Ahmad
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What is the software development life cycle?

- Guide for non-tech


founders
Do you have a promising idea for new software but lack the necessary skills required to turn it into a
reality? Creating a working software is not everyone's cup of tea, especially if you are a non-technical
person.

But that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do. This blog will guide you through all the phases of the
software development life cycle. Are you ready to learn how to convert your idea into feasible software?

What is the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)?


SDLC is a set of standard business practices recommended for building software.

How the Software Development Life Cycle Works


The SDLC works by analyzing, measuring, and monitoring the entire development process. It reduces
waste and maximizes efficiency at each phase.

SDLC consists of 7 steps that work on aligning concepts with the final product. Let's discuss these core
components further.

The Seven Phases of the SDLC


Before you begin developing software, you need to conduct comprehensive research. The research
entails Customer Analysis, Industry Analysis, and Competitive Analysis. Evaluate if there is a need for
your software. More importantly, it will help you decide if your idea is profitable.

● Planning
You need to assemble the right team players to bring your idea to life. A successful project requires
writing down a realistic, functional plan. Describe what you want the software to achieve. Highlight its
scope and purpose. Mention goals, objectives, timelines, and strategies you plan to use.

This SDLC phase is often overlooked. However, it's essential to keep everyone on the same page
throughout the developmental process. Your journey will remain more organized with a clear vision of
success and keep you on track. Remember, flexibility is the key to a successful plan. It allows you to
make changes quickly and easily.

● Define requirements
List the services you will need at each stage and where the funding will come from. If you don't have the
skills to develop the software, you may need to invest in a software tool to help in-house employees
build it. You might outsource the project to freelancers or a reputable software development company.
Or partner up with a technical co-founder who can make technical decisions and solve technical
nuances.

● Design and prototyping


Your software must be easy to use and aesthetically appealing. That means perfecting various aspects of
design, particularly UI and UX.

Everything can look great on paper. But how do you know it looks and operates flawlessly? This is why
you will need to develop an MVP (minimal viable product). Use the feedback to correct mistakes and
tweak features before launching the final product. Completing this step earlier on helps save time and
money.

● Software development
This entails the actual writing of the program. Besides coding, consider creating other elements to help
users resolve technical issues. This includes documenting software features, video tutorials, user guides,
troubleshooting guides, and FAQs.

● Testing
It's time to check your concept's workability and viability. Testing is an easy way to identify mistakes that
occurred during coding. The testing requires engaging with your actual customers. Is your software the
solution your target audience was looking for? Fixing issues before launch prevent any stigmas from
arising about the software.

● Deployment
The last stage of development involves making the software available to users. Deployment may be as
simple as a download link on your website, or it may require a payment portal. Also, consider whether it
will be available to mobile phone users.

● Maintenance and Operations


The operation and maintenance phase ensures there are no bugs, glitches, or errors after launch. It can
also assess whether there is a scope for continued development. What additional features can you add
to make your software better?

SDLC Models & Methodologies


Waterfall
This model is the typical method of development. Each phase automatically carries over to the next one.
However, one phase must finish before the other starts.

Agile
The focus of the Agile model is on customer needs and UX. Since its basis is customer feedback,
development cycles are responsive and completed faster.

Iterative
Here, developers quickly build a basic version of the software. After reviewing the initial product, they
improve small steps (or iterations) to meet the business's need.

DevOps
A model that incorporates people who use the software into the development cycle. Developers gather
feedback from software users and implement changes into the design.

Other models
There are other SDLC methodologies, like V-shape, big bang model, and spiral model. Choose the one
that matches your developmental needs.
Conclusion
As a non-technical founder, it can be challenging to get your idea developed and shipped to end-users.
But with the right collaborations, this task can get significantly easier. However, understanding the
different SDLC phases enables effective communication with team members.

Resources:

https://medium.com/crowdbotics/how-to-build-software-as-a-non-technical-founder-5d270f574993

https://www.merixstudio.com/blog/how-start-building-digital-products-when-you-are-non-tech-
founder/

https://phoenixnap.com/blog/software-development-life-cycle

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