Software Development - Introduction

Software Development consists of many different phases. It consists of specifying the requirements of a system or application, designing the application, developing the application, documenting the application, managing the application development process, testing the application, managing the changes to the application, delivering the application, and finally, supporting the application.

In all these phases of the application development process, different techniques can be used to achieve the same result. Many different tools exist that perform the same function. In many cases, the process and tools chosen depend on the application, the goals of the enterprise, the geographical location of resources, and the talent and experience of the resources used. It’s like driving a car from point A to point B. It doesn’t matter which car you chose, you will get the same result. However, if you chose a compact car over an SUV, you will get to your destination much more efficiently but may not be able to haul all the things you wanted; it may take you longer; and it may not be the smoothest ride. The point is that there are always trade-offs to consider in choosing any solution.

The following paper describes many of the development models that companies use for system/application/software development. The pros and cons are summarized so they can be compared with other development models. A key observation to remember is that any process will work if it is managed correctly. The biggest obstacles to success in software development are management and resources. Management usually does not realize the scope of the project, and therefore, sets unrealistic goals that can never be met. The resources assigned to the project are usually never 100% dedicated to the project and not fully trained in the development process, and therefore, schedules slip, costs increase, and functionality is eliminated.

It was once stated that software development consists of three major categories - Function, Cost, and Schedule. The problem is usually only two of the three are delivered. Function and Cost can be delivered as long as there is no set schedule. Cost and Schedule can be delivered as long as all the functionality is not needed. And Function and Schedule can be delivered as long as there are unlimited amount of resources. In discussing the various development models, these three principles – Function, Cost, and Schedule – need to be considered and factored into the decision as to what model to use.

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