To a person who has absolutely no connection to the software development process, the SDLC methodology may seem like Greek. But, those ushered into the software stream will tell you the important role played by the SDLC methodology in any kind of software development process. Here we shall discuss the SDLC methodology, the steps that lead to the process build up and its various forms and models.

What is SDLC Methodology?

In common language, we refer to SDLC methodology as a software development process or software life cycle. The SDLC methodology comprises of the structure of activities in development of a software product. This software development life cycle is considered as a part of the Systems Development Life cycle which is much wider in scope. The SDLC methodology comprises of different steps and models. Each SDLC methodology type has a different approach to every step.

What are the SDLC Methodology Steps?

SDLC functions on the basis of certain steps. Although they may be known by the same name in a particular methodology each step is very important. They are treated differently. Besides, they also produce different results. Given below are some of the common SDLC methodology steps.

• Planning: Planning functions as the most important and basic step of the SDLC methodology. The planning stage in the SDLC methodology tries to figure out a concept around which they will develop particular software. Some develop their concept on the basis of the demands in the market trying to find out the current requirements of every age group. The planning stage is important as all the upper management in the further SDLC methodology steps depends upon this. Therefore, gathering the general requirements is the first step.
• Design: Once the issue of planning and requirement analysis is completed it is time to create a design or layout of the particular plan. This can be a rough plan of the design. The project manager along with developers can come upon a decision about the programming language to be used, the layout of the work flow. The design is another fundamental step in the SDLC methodology as developers have a concrete plan to work on.
• Implementation: The implementation stage differs with each SDLC model. In this stage they program the actual code of the project. The developers develop the entire software and place it before users for implementation and approval.  But in the iterative model of the SDLC methodology every change is put forth for approval to the intended users.
• Testing: The testing stage involves two types. The first is the testing done by the intended users for certain models. The other type of testing involves the work of professional and other developers to correct any kind of flaws in the software.
• Maintenance: The software that has been created may not be perfect and may encounter certain problems. The company requires to set up a cell may be a call centre or any email service that consumers can use to get back to developers. This step serves as an integral part of SDLC methodology as it also prompts them about the required changes in future.