The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process used to
design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain software efficiently. It helps ensure
high-quality software is delivered on time and within budget.
1. Planning
Purpose: Define the project's goals and feasibility.
Activities:
Identify business requirements.
Conduct feasibility study (technical, economic, operational).
Estimate cost, time, and resources.
Create the project plan.
Output: Project plan and feasibility report.
2. Requirements Analysis
Purpose: Gather and document user and business requirements.
Activities:
Meet with stakeholders.
Analyze functional and non-functional requirements.
Prepare the Software Requirements Specification (SRS).
Output: SRS document.
3. System Design
Purpose: Design the software architecture and components.
Activities:
Design database structure.
Create system architecture.
Design user interface (UI).
Select technologies and frameworks.
Output: Design Document (HLD & LLD).
HLD (High-Level Design): Overall architecture.
LLD (Low-Level Design): Detailed module design.
4. Development (Coding)
Purpose: Build the software according to the design.
Activities:
Write source code.
Perform code reviews.
Use version control (e.g., Git).
Follow coding standards.
Output: Working software modules.
5. Testing
Purpose: Verify that the software works correctly and meets requirements.
Types of Testing:
Unit Testing
Integration Testing
System Testing
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
Performance Testing
Security Testing
Output: Tested software with defects fixed.
6. Deployment
Purpose: Release the software to users.
Activities:
Install the application.
Configure the production environment.
Perform final validation.
Train users if required.
Output: Live software.
7. Maintenance
Purpose: Keep the software reliable and up to date.
Activities:
Fix bugs.
Improve performance.
Add new features.
Apply security updates.
Output: Updated and supported software.
SDLC Flow
Planning
↓
Requirements Analysis
↓
System Design
↓
Development (Coding)
↓
Testing
↓
Deployment
↓
Maintenance
Common SDLC Models
Waterfall: Sequential approach; suitable when requirements are stable.
Agile: Iterative and collaborative; accommodates changing requirements.
Spiral: Combines iterative development with risk analysis; useful for
large, high-risk projects.
V-Model: Maps each development phase to a corresponding testing
phase.
Incremental: Delivers the product in smaller functional increments.
Benefits of SDLC
Improves software quality.
Reduces development risks.
Enhances project planning and management.
Helps control costs and timelines.
Increases customer satisfaction through a structured development
process.