The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a systematic process used by software developers and project managers to design, develop, test, and deploy high-quality software. The SDLC provides a structured framework that ensures the development process is systematic, efficient, and produces reliable software solutions.
1.1. Definition and Purpose:
- SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle.
- It is a series of steps that provide a model for the development and lifecycle management of an application or piece of software.
- The primary purpose of SDLC is to produce high-quality software that meets or exceeds customer expectations, reaches completion within times and cost estimates.
1.2. Key Phases of SDLC:
- Planning: Define the scope, objectives, and feasibility of the project.
- Analysis: Gather detailed business requirements and analyze user needs.
- Design: Design system architecture and user interfaces.
- Implementation (Coding): Write the actual code based on the design documents.
- Testing: Verify that the software works as intended and fix any defects.
- Deployment: Deploy the software to a production environment.
- Maintenance: Provide ongoing support and updates to the software.
1.3. Benefits of Using SDLC:
- Ensures a structured approach to software development.
- Helps in project planning and scheduling.
- Improves project tracking and control.
- Reduces the risk of project failure.
- Enhances the quality of the software product.
1.4. Example Scenario: Imagine developing an online learning platform like “JUST-Learning.” The SDLC will guide the team through planning the platform’s features, analyzing user needs, designing the user interface, coding the application, testing it for bugs, deploying it to the web, and maintaining the platform with updates and new features.
