Software Development Methodologies: When, Where, and How to Use Them?
Tags: devops, softwareengineering, agile, development
Published: 2023-05-19 12:16:13

Software development includes various steps to testify a new software before it lands in the real market for customer use. Proper planning and implementation go a long way in the software development process. Your company must possess the right methodology to capitalize on the available resources and technologies. Proper software development methodologies render a platform for companies to communicate efficiently. 

## What are Software Development Methodologies Used for?
Software development companies use the [top software development methodologies ](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/blog/top-software-development-methodologies-developers-should-know/)for designing, implementing, and testing new computer programs. The enterprise IT expenditure is growing, [with companies investing $4.5 trillion in 2023](https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2023-01-18-gartner-forecasts-worldwide-it-spending-to-grow-2-percent-in-2023). It is to support the turbulent economic changes that are focused on software development projects. 

Moreover, [software developers are focused on making secure software](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/blog/secure-software-development-10-crucial-takeaways/) that can cater to every customer’s needs. Using these methodologies is to improve software design and carry out product and project management. Effective implementation of these methodologies will help with efficiency improvement and lead to high-quality deliverables. 

Let us now read about the different development methodologies that enterprise software development services providers use.

## Which of the Software Development Methodologies are Preferable to Use?

**1. Waterfall Model**
   -  It is an old and popular software methodology that follows the sequential and linear approach. The inputs follow from one stage to the next in a structural manner. The Waterfall model is commonly used in product development and software engineering. You must use this method when the project requirements are clear and fixed. [28% of the companies use Waterfall Development Methodology](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1233917/software-development-methodologies-practiced/) for continuous delivery in the software development lifecycle. 

The 6 stages in which this method is divided are:

   -  The requirement stage deals with the conceptualization stage, where the developers determine the expectations and functionality of the product development.
   -  Developers define the software architecture and need it under the system design stage.
   -  Develop software in distinct units and test them for individual functionalities under implementation.
   -  The integration and testing stage helps in testing the flaws and errors of the combined units.
   -  During the deployment stage, the software becomes available for client use.
   -  If the client encounters issues while using it in real-time, the software development providers offer to troubleshoot.

**2. Spiral Method**
   -  Developers use this software development lifecycle method for risk management, combining the iterative process model. Software developers use it to handle large, expensive, and complicated projects. This methodology has four stages where continuous development is being done. The development team builds, tests, and refines the product for improvement. 
   -  The planning stage involves defining the objectives.
   -  Developers will identify the risks and will try to devise the right solutions.
   -  The engineering stage includes designing and developing the product based on previous phases.
   -  The evaluation stage helps the developers evaluate the project’s status and plan for the next iteration.

**3. Iterative and Incremental Model**
   -  The software development company uses this software development methodology when requirements are clearly defined to the developers and quite easy to understand. Software engineers use this iterative model when the application is large or future changes may come up. The Iterative and Incremental model is the feature-driven development model derived from agile methodology.
   -  It is one of the older and prominent development methodologies, like the Waterfall methodology. It is a predecessor to the lean methodology. This methodology follows a client-centric approach that helps develop an agile feature list to accomplish the tasks according to stated features. Understanding the client’s model and attributes is necessary to reduce any surprises during development.

**4. Agile Development**
   -  Developers use [agile methodologies](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/blog/agile-software-development-in-python/) when making frequent changes in the SDLC. It is best to use for ongoing software development projects or projects where the clientele needs to learn the details. Most small software development projects also use this methodology because of the availability of highly qualified teams.
   -  Under agile development methodology, the main focus is the project or the product. The best part is the freedom from rigid frameworks; developers can test the software flexibly. The short time frames make the software development process fast, and the feedback is received instantly. This results in producing a top-notch product and improves the quality. This methodology is pressed into action to handle complex and variable situations in the [software development process](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/blog/steps-to-define-software-development-process/).

**5. Prototype Model**
   -  This software development method is particularly used where the interactions with the end users are involved. This method best suits web interfaces, online systems, etc. The developer uses the Prototype model to enhance the new design for users and system analysts. It provides real-time specifications for end users in the working environment. 
   -  The software development services company creates the prototype of the software or products in this version. This final product prototype is created for user testing, evaluation, and feedback. After the feedback, the prototype goes through different iterations until the customer deems it satisfactory. The best part of this methodology is the prototype goes through iterations and is corrected before the development of the actual product.

## How do I Choose a Methodology for Software Development?

There are various software development methodologies used when producing the software. However, there are certain factors involved when considering a particular methodology. You must [hire the right enterprise software development company](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/enterprise-software-development) with expertise in meeting modern customer needs. Let us walk you through the significant ways to choose the right methodology:

  -  You must understand your client needs and their target audiences.
  -  Check out the audience size and decide whether a non-iterative or a collaborative approach will work.
  -  The characteristics of the projects must be considered before picking the right methodology.
  -  Your flexibility is required to handle software development projects. You have to check whether the client wants a prototype or wants to start working in small batches.
  -  Check out what methodology will bring out perfection in your project. A certain action plan is required, and you must follow a successful methodology to get a beneficial outcome.

### Get Connected with the Best Software Development Provider!
Are you concerned about the quality and efficiency of your software? If yes, [hire the right software development company](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/), BoTree Technologies. We have the right software engineers well-versed in various software development methodologies. Our well-knit experienced engineers deliver high-performing and successful products. 

Connecting with BoTree Technologies is the first step in moving forward. [Contact us today](https://www.botreetechnologies.com/contact)!