Understand the waterfall lifecycle, agile methodologies, extreme programming, the spiral model and rapid application development
1.2.3 Software Development
Practise exam questionsSoftware Development — Note 1 of 3
Candidates need to understand the following models that can be followed to produce a software system; the waterfall lifecycle, agile methodologies (specifically extreme programming); the spiral model and rapid application development).
Software development methodologies are structured approaches to producing software. Each one organises the stages of analysis, design, development, testing and maintenance differently and involves the user to a different degree.
Stages are completed one after another in a fixed order; each stage must be finished and signed off before the next begins, with limited ability to go back.
The software is developed in short iterations (sprints), producing working versions regularly so requirements can change and users give frequent feedback.
An agile method focused on code quality. Features include pair programming, test-driven development (writing tests before code), short releases, continuous integration, collective code ownership, refactoring and a customer representative on the team.
Development passes repeatedly through four phases (determine objectives, identify and resolve risks, develop and test, plan the next iteration), with a strong focus on risk management.
Uses prototypes that are repeatedly shown to users and refined based on their feedback, often within strict time limits (timeboxing), until the final product is produced.
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