The software development process is divided into a few key steps that allow it to operate effectively. The code within a system is directly related to the product’s design, data, workflow, and execution. Written by a software developer, the software should achieve a set of goals or objectives.
Naturally, the code can only be applied once a system has undergone each phase within the developmental process. As the software passes each phase, it moves close to a final software program that the designers and developers envisioned. Here are the essential steps of the software developmental process.
Analysis
Most believe that coding is the most important step within the developmental process. However, it is imperative that a business understands its goals when creating software. The analysis allows for the business to solidify its goals for a given software and to ensure that their investment garners a return.
This phase focuses on project managers, stakeholders, and users. It asks the questions: who is going to use this system, how will it be used, and what data should be input into the system. These requirements are gathered together and analyzed before proceeding to the next phase.
Product Design
After the analysis phase, developers use the data gathered to create a structure for the software. This phase focuses on the architecture of the software. You should set up standards for the software and what it will achieve. At this point, focus on the abstract concept of the software. It should meet all the requirements of the final product.
Then, you can map out workflows, determine which databases to use, and create a data model. If you are planning to use containerized software with integrations like JFrog, list out the code registries that you will need to maintain. By designing your product to fit your needs generates a unique, optimized product. The design phase creates a foundation for the code.
Coding
Once the design has been laid out, software engineers should divide the work into units for coding. Dividing the work makes it easier for you to generate the code. It also helps to meet specific requirements. Coding is the longest phase in the process.
Additionally, it is the most challenging to understand your development framework and write scripts efficiently. However, it gives you the benefit of tailoring your product to exact specifications. While the design is being coded, it is important to maintain communication about the project’s progress. The software should be coded piece by piece to build a clean, reliable product.
Testing
Testing is usually done simultaneously with coding. Testing during coding allows software engineers to check for bugs and to track progress more efficiently. Though you will test your software while coding, tests should continue until you release the product. Tests include module testing, program testing, product testing, and in-house testing.
Once these tests are complete, the product should be sent to beta-testers. Some software engineers also use UX tools to track a user’s interactions with the product. Testing can be one of the longest processes in software development. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re not sending buggy software to the market.
Deployment
When the testing has been completed, it’s time to launch your product. Software releases are usually limited at first. How fast you release a product depends on customer feedback and how many adjustments may be needed. The act of deployment is an automated process. Typically, companies use a continuous deployment model or Application Release Automation tool. These tools control applications centrally, allowing for seamless deployment. Deployment is the production phase of software development.
Maintenance
Deploying your software into the world isn’t the final step. As your software gains users, issues will arise. The software will need to be checked and updated on a regular basis. A business can offer vendors maintenance packages to fix bugs and software problems.
Software, like other products, is under warranty for specific periods of time. Once the warranty expires, users may be required to pay out-of-pocket to fix the bugs. Offering updates and maintenance packages are a good way to nurture a loyal customer base. Regular maintenance will also keep you informed of changing demands in the market.
Software development is a series of basic steps within a process. Each phase within the developmental process is as important as the last. Taking the time to analyze your needs and gather data leads to better design. Coding requires a solid architecture to build on, while thorough testing ensures a solid product goes to market.
Deploying your product relies on a steady hand in previous phases, or you will have to backtrack to identify issues. Maintenance is a great way to nurture a loyal customer base and to stay informed of changing demands within the marketplace. When dreaming up the next big software, be sure to follow the essential steps of software development.
