Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) outlines the structured process for creating software applications. It consists of the following stages:
- Planning β Defining the project scope and objectives.
- Analysis β Gathering and analyzing requirements.
- Design β Creating system and software architecture.
- Development β Writing and implementing the code.
- Testing β Ensuring the software functions correctly.
- Deployment β Releasing the software for use.
- Maintenance β Updating and improving the software over time.
Documentation in SDLCβ
1. User Requirements Specification (URS)β
This document details user needs before software development begins. It serves as a communication tool between stakeholders and developers, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring clarity. The URS should be written in simple language and include tables or diagrams.
Requirement Gathering Methodsβ
- Interviews β Asking questions and collecting feedback from stakeholders.
- User Stories β Understanding the application from a userβs perspective to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Straw Man Documents β Presenting ideas for an application without writing actual code (e.g., flowcharts, storyboards, HTML mock-ups).
- Prototyping β Developing a minimal version of the application to collect stakeholder feedback.
2. Technical Specification Documentβ
This document provides detailed information on the functionality, requirements, and constraints of the application.
Principles of Technical Specificationβ
- Clear β Easily understood by all stakeholders.
- Unambiguous β Avoids vague descriptions.
- Complete β Covers all necessary details.
- Consistent β Maintains coherence throughout the document.
Stakeholder Perspectivesβ
- Developers β Implement application specifications.
- Clients/Users β Utilize the application.
- Legal Compliance β Ensure the application meets acceptance criteria and regulatory standards.
Contingency Planβ
A backup plan (Plan B) is included to address potential failures or issues during the development or deployment process.
3. Software Requirements Specification (SRS)β
Definitionβ
The Software Requirements Specification (SRS) outlines the functional and non-functional requirements of an application. It is crucial for developers, testers, UI/UX designers, and investors.
Benefitsβ
- UI/UX Designers β Use the SRS to create user-friendly designs.
- Testers β Develop test cases based on the documented requirements.
- Users β Understand the purpose and functionality of the software.
- Investors β Evaluate the applicationβs potential and feasibility.
Key Elements of an SRSβ
- Application Objectives β The purpose of the software.
- General Description β Overview of the system.
- Functional and Non-Functional Requirements β Features and performance expectations.
- Performance Requirements β Expected behavior in production.
- User Interface (UI) Design β Guidelines for visual and interactive elements.
- System Constraints β Limitations and dependencies.
Types of Requirementsβ
- Functional Requirements β Specific features and functionalities.
- Non-Functional Requirements β Supporting requirements such as performance, security, reliability, and usability.
Structure of an SRSβ
- Introduction β Summary of the softwareβs function and purpose.
- Glossary β Definitions of technical terms.
- User Requirements β Description of services provided to users, often illustrated with diagrams.
- System Architecture β High-level overview of the applicationβs architecture.
- System Requirements β Detailed functional and non-functional requirements.
- System Models β Object models, data flow models, or semantic data models.
- Development Plan β Future development roadmap.
- Appendix β Additional supporting details.
By following these structured documents, software development teams can ensure clear communication, efficient development, and high-quality applications.