A software methodology is an approach, a way of interpreting the reality or the discipline in question, which in this particular case would correspond to software engineering. In fact, the methodology for software development is considered as a structure used to plan and control the procedure of creating a specialized information system.

The world of development, for better or for worse, has evolved from a model in which all phases were carefully planned and structured into a model in which development must be as fast and efficient as possible. Take a look at some of the development methodologies that will allow you to know which would be the most appropriate for your business. Bear in mind that by being familiar with these popular approaches you can optimize the efficiency of your projects using a single approach or by combining some of them.

Extreme Programming Methodology (XP)

As an agile software engineering methodology, the extreme programming methodology is currently known as XP methodology (eXtreme Programming). This methodology is mainly used to avoid the development of functions that are not currently needed, but above all to handle complicated projects. However, their peculiar methods can take more time, as well as human resources compared to other approaches.

Prototype Methodology

It is a specialized development procedure that allows developers the possibility of being able to only sample the resolution in order to validate its functional essence with the clients, and make the changes that are fundamental before creating the authentic final solution. In fact, the best part of this methodology is that it tends to solve a set of diversification problems that occur with the cascade method.

Besides this, the great advantage of opting for this approach is that it gives a clearer idea of the software’s functional process, reduces the risk of failure in software functionality, and assists in the collection of requirements and in the general analysis.

Waterfall Model

If you have ever dabbled in the software development world, you have surely come across the cascade model at some point. Otherwise, it should be noted that in this model each stage represents a development unit with a small break in between. Therefore, each next stage begins as soon as the previous one has finished, and those breaks are used for confirmations on the client’s side.

Additionally, this is considered as the traditional method of explaining the software development process in software engineering, which is why it is currently seen as outdated. However, it is still applied to projects with clear goals and requirements that require up to 100 hours of development, especially considering that this approach allows businesses to get rid of unnecessary paperwork, regular meetings that consume a lot of time and delays in their business processes.

Spiral model

While the waterfall methodology offers an orderly structure for software development, the amount of time to reach the market make its serial steps inappropriate.

The next evolutionary step from the waterfall is where the different steps for multiple deliveries or transfers are made. The last evolution of the fall of the water is the spiral, taking advantage of the fact that the development projects work better when they are incremental and iterative.

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

In order to provide quick results, it is an approach that is intended to provide excellent development processes with the help of other approaches, but is also designed to increase the viability of the entire software development procedure to highlight the participation of an active user.