Understanding SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle)

Different software projects have different needs, and various workflow models exist to accommodate these needs. Some of the most popular SDLC models include:

The Waterfall model is a linear approach to software development in which each phase must be completed before the next one begins. Each phase is based on the assumption that there were no errors in the previous phase, so developers can quickly get to work as each new phase takes effect. 

Waterfall models are straightforward and easy to manage. They are ideal for smaller projects with well-defined roles and responsibilities. However, the format's inflexibility makes it challenging to adapt to changes or nuanced tasks.

The Agile methodology takes a flexible, iterative approach to software development. It emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and customer feedback, with development occurring in small, incremental cycles called "sprints." This framework fosters continuous evaluation so changes in direction can be easily made. A potential downside is that Agile requires careful communication management, especially in larger teams, to ensure consistent messaging and coordination.

The Iterative model divides the project into small, manageable parts (iterations), and each iteration produces a working version of the software. After each iteration, the software is tested and refined based on feedback until the final product meets all requirements. It follows a more rigid structure than Agile software development, with clearly defined steps focusing only on incremental improvements. 

This model enables better control of scope, time, and resources, facilitating the early detection of technical or architectural issues. However, there is limited scope for adapting to evolving requirements throughout the project. If an error goes undetected, all later iterations must be reworked—a problem known as ‘technical debt.’

The V-Model focuses on testing at each stage of development. Every phase in the development process has a corresponding testing phase, ensuring that validation and verification are performed consistently. The V in the name does not reflect the words ‘validation’ and ‘verification’ but describes how the two processes are conducted in parallel yet take the project to a single completion point. That point corresponds to the Implementation phase, where coding begins.

This model ensures that issues are identified early, but it can be cumbersome if applied to complex projects that require frequent changes. 

The DevOps model emphasizes continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD), bridging the gap between development and operations teams. It promotes collaboration and automation, ensuring code changes are quickly and safely deployed.

The other models often treat development and operations as separate phases or handoff points. The DevOps approach can be applied to any point of the process or even in combination with one of the traditional models. This is because, under DevOps, the components used in each phase are no longer considered to be living in separate silos or production environments.   

This results in faster delivery of features and updates but requires more upfront investment in specialized tools and qualified staff, making it difficult for small teams to implement.

There is an obvious benefit to eliminating chaos, but an SDLC framework builds on that idea in more ways than simply bringing order:

• Improved project management: A structured process helps keep the project on a defined path and aligned with goals. When all team members follow the same process for every project, it’s easier for managers to maintain oversight and respond to milestones and deliverables, resulting in projects with a greater chance of conforming to schedules and budgets.
• Consistent output quality: A consistent and systematic workflow results in consistency in the end product. Software engineers can produce high-quality solutions based on steps whose repeatability and reliability have been proven.

• Risk mitigation: Each phase includes steps to identify and address risks, reducing the chances of costly errors. 

Some software development models are better at managing risk than others. But what risks are we talking about?

Risk can be quite a broad area, encompassing factors that impact the timeline, budget, or product quality. There is technical risk relating to the reliability of the technology used or compatibility across different platforms/devices; financial risks such as cost overruns or insufficient funding; and scheduling risks such as delays due to bottlenecks or scope creep.

In recent years, however, governments have passed regulations calling for more attention to security risks such as software vulnerabilities, data breaches, and system weaknesses. As a result, developers have introduced the concept of DevSecOps into the software development process so that security testing occurs at every stage of development. In the past, it was often considered an afterthought, implemented only after perfecting the software's core functionality.

Every project and development team is different, so companies need to be aware of the different SDLC models and when to use each one. They will need to consider project size, complexity, budget, and team structure, among other variables. 

Here are some standard examples of pairing methodology with basic project characteristics :

• Waterfall lends itself to small, time-limited projects with well-defined requirements and minimal client involvement.
• Agile is ideal for large, complex projects that require frequent changes and close collaboration with multiple stakeholders.
• A V-shaped model is best for time-limited projects with highly specific requirements prioritizing testing and quality assurance.

• DevOps is perfect for teams seeking continuous integration and deployment in large projects, emphasizing long-term maintenance.

Within each model, there can be scope for using project management structures such as Scrum and Kanban, particularly when using complex, cyclical models like Agile. Let’s break each of those down further:

The Scrum framework outlines workflows through sprints, promoting an iterative development process. Key components include backlog management, sprint planning, tracking tools, and visualization boards. Jira’s Scrum board assists teams in managing work from sprint to sprint.

The Kanban framework emphasizes continuous workflow and efficient task management, focusing on work progress rather than deadlines. It highlights workflow visualization and task prioritization. Jira’s Kanban board helps teams define workflows and address bottlenecks.

A simple model like Waterfall will use traditional frameworks like the Critical Path Method or a Gantt chart to schedule activities.

Ideally, teams will use a project management and workflow coordination solution, such as Jira, to organize processes and adjustments to the model.  

Jira is a powerful tool for managing SDLC processes. It offers features like Scrum and Kanban to support planning, task management, and collaboration.

Jira supports every phase of the SDLC, and development teams can use its templates to efficiently manage tasks, track progress, and collaborate across departments. Consider these tips for using Jira to streamline your SDLC:

• Use Scrum boards for iterative development, allowing teams to visualize work in real-time and break down work into manageable sprints.
• Kanban boards are ideal for visualizing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and ensuring continuous delivery.

• Automate workflows to reduce manual tasks and improve efficiency.

Engineers can enhance the SDLC by using Jira’s automation rules to handle repetitive tasks and set up notifications for critical updates. They can create custom fields to capture essential information for each task and integrate third-party tools like Slack or Confluence to improve cross-team communication and centralize project information.

Get Jira Free and give your team the tools to stay organized, communicate effectively, and deliver high-quality software on time.