Software development models are tools that help to implement all of the parts of the software development life cycle (SDLC). It’s called a cycle as it is a step-by-step procedure. These development models provide a systematic way to do things in the development world. It ensures that the process is carried out rightly from ideation to production. Therefore, choosing the right model is of utmost importance.
Table of Contents
Stages in Software Development Models
The following are the steps in the process of developing:
- Requirement Analysis. Analyze the requirements of the client and all the information connected to it, such as the market.
- Design. Discuss each technological need since it will be the foundation for the project in the future.
- Implementation. The process of software development itself.
- Testing. Before releasing the software, you test its work, correct the bugs and implement improvements.
- Evolution. After deploying the product, your primary task is going to be proper maintenance and development.
There are numerous types of software development models that we will review in this article. In this article, you will know the pluses and minuses of using those models and check if we can combine them or not. Interestingly, some companies stick to only one method. Meanwhile, some like mixing and adopting a few of them together.
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Why Software Development Models Are So Important for Business Development
Defining the project’s objective or goal is essential when you start working. The adequately chosen model helps to make the work more efficient and faster. However, according to Forbes and its Technology Council, it is a common practice to try a few methodologies before finding “the one” or a few mixed together. For example, there was a company that combined Agile and Waterfall methodologies. They concluded that small and medium projects with measurable goals and budgets work better like this. 
The main reasons why a properly established software development model is essential are:
- Minimize the risks and amount of adjustments
- Supports the right processes implementation according to deadlines
- Increase team and software performance
- Optimizes the process
7 Types of Software Development Model
It is worth mentioning that there are more than 50 software development models. However, we’ve chosen just seven to make the decision-making more effortless.
Waterfall
In the Waterfall or linear model, all processes are definite. Every stage starts one after the other. This methodology fits better for small and mid-sized projects. It is limited in time and is usually used for easy projects. 
The model is characterized to be not very adaptive or flexible. All the risks are defined at the first stages of the work. However, the new ones can be hard to solve or predict. But, a guide to solve conflicts can help.
Agile
The agile model has various types, such as Scrum or Kanban. Those types are far more adjustable than the previous ones. The main processes don’t have strict limitations and can happen simultaneously.
Continuous system testing and rapid, this one helps to minimize the uncertainties. High levels of collaboration and teamwork are its key advantages. 
Although this model was initially designed for software development processes, it is also an excellent tool for other projects. A content marketer is among many people who use the Agile model in their work. To cut a long story short, the best content marketing specialist is the one who knows about agile content marketing and knows how to implement it into the structure.
Agile methodology helps an expert content marketing manager to increase performance, productivity, and teamwork.
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RAD
The main focus of the rapid application development model (RAD) is to remain simple and fast. It is often used to engage customers from the very beginning. The difference between the Waterfall model and RAD is changing and susceptible to feedback.
RAD model reduces the duration of the development cycle. As a result, it cuts the project’s cost (also due to the use of powerful tools). Also, the number of developers and the entire project as a whole.
BOT
Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) is a business development model focusing on cooperation with other IT partners. BOT models are suitable for big, time-consuming projects and companies with significant capacities.
Build operate transfer IT outsourcing partner helps hire good staff, payroll, accounting, and other needed functions.
Source: Mobilunity
The main advantages of build operate transfer IT services are reduced costs, full operational support, and a wide range of specialists worldwide.
Validation and Verification
The V-Model goes for Validation and Verification in software development models. Simply put, it is also an updated version of a Waterfall model. Each stage of development goes side by side with testing, decreasing the possibility of facing problems.
Any IT project, regardless of size or complexity, may be easily adaptive using the V-Model idea.
Iterative
For the iterative model, there is no need to define the conditions at the beginning of the development stage. The repetitive process ensures the creation of a new product version for each cycle. 
Every decision depends on the results of each iteration. The results may act as an entry point for starting the next iteration. Eventually, there comes a time when the product has everything you need. You must usually make a rough plan for the iterations at the beginning.
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Spiral
It is a mix of Waterfall and iterative methods. The spiral model helps to apply multiple process models to a software project. Also, this is on the basis of unique risk models that ensure an efficient development process. 
The benefits of this are development is fast, and the addition of features is systematic. Moreover, continuous or repetitive development helps in risk management, etc. Therefore, it is a popular choice among companies.
FAQs
Which is the most typically used software development model?
When it comes to software development, Waterfall is the most traditional and safe choice.
Which software development model is the most trending?
A lot of companies in the recent day and age incline towards Agile model due to its flexiblity.
Whats the difference between Scrum and agile?
Scrum is broken down into smaller deliverables, while in Agile everything is delivered at the end of the project.
Conclusion
Therefore, a software development model is the core of the project. It helps minimize the risks and makes work more efficient. It is challenging to find a model for your company’s requirements. But after you find it, it will go smoothly.
Mauro Huculak is a technical writer. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he’s a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.
