The evolution of software development methods

How are software development methods evolving, and what are the widely used methods and their reasons for popularity? The field of software development is continually evolving, with emerging methods aimed at developing software faster and more efficiently. Initially, the industry relied on the waterfall method, followed by the adoption of agile methodology, and currently, the prevalent approach is DevOps. This article explores the contrasts between these methods, highlighting their respective advantages and drawbacks.

The waterfall method for software development

The waterfall method is a conventional approach to software development, which was introduced in 1970. This method involves dividing the development process into distinct phases: analysis of requirements and specifications, design, programming, testing, and operational phase. In the waterfall model, each phase must be fully completed before proceeding to the next one.

Advantages of this method

Accurate documentation

This is a widely recognised approach; every stage is meticulously documented, simplifying knowledge transfer. If a software developer departs from the project, another team member can effortlessly take their place.

Disadvantages of the waterfall method

Less flexible

As companies continue to evolve and grow, the demand for flexible and responsive software has increased. However, the traditional waterfall methodology assumes that the software is complete at the end of the design phase, which can pose a challenge when companies require alterations post-design. In practice, companies frequently need to make modifications even after the design phase, rendering the waterfall method less effective in meeting their dynamic needs.

Slow process

With this software development method, each phase must be completed before moving on to the next one. This creates a well-structured process, but it also slows down the work. For example, the design phase can take a long time. Certain parts of the software have often been planned, but with this method, the programmers cannot start working on them yet.

Agile: a philosophy for software development

Agile originated in 2001 when several software developers created the Agile Manifesto. It outlines all the key points for software development. The 12 principles of Agile are as follows:

• Rapid and continuous delivery of software leads to customer satisfaction. 

• Late changes in customer requirements are welcomed. 

• Deliver new, well-functioning software every few weeks. 

• Collaboration between software developers and those who know the organisation well. 

• Motivated and reliable people carry out the projects. 

• Software development always continues. 

• Continuous attention to technical quality and good design. 

• The design is adapted to the circumstances. 

• Simplicity is essential. 

• Teams organise themselves. 

• Communication always takes the form of a conversation. 

• Progress is delivering working software.

Agile is essentially a philosophy for software developers in which the ability to respond to change and rapidly deliver software is paramount. The customer is central, and there is a direct response to any changes in requirements or circumstances. One of the most well-known forms of Agile is the Scrum framework.

Advantages of Agile

Speed

There are no long delivery cycles with Agile, and software is delivered quickly. Many companies that have adopted Agile have seen their time-to-market decrease by 40% to 75%.

Collaboration with the customer

In Agile, the customer is involved throughout the entire process. This means the project can be adjusted anytime, and designers and customers remain in continuous dialogue.

High quality

A high-quality product is produced by incorporating customer adjustments and requirements during the software development process. Each end-product is thoroughly tested, which allows any errors to be quickly discovered.

Disadvantages of Agile

Requires significant time and commitment

Agile requires a significant change in mindset, which is different from traditional software development. Employees need to be trained in this way of working, which can require effort, but the rewards can be substantial.

DevOps: an endless process of software development

DevOps goes further than Agile. These two methods can, in fact, be well combined. DevOps is the coupling of development (Dev) and operations (Ops). It is a way of software development that connects people, workflows, and technology to deliver continuous value. DevOps has the following components:

• Planning and tracking 

• Development 

• Building and testing 

• Delivery 

• Monitoring 

• Operations

Collaboration is key

In DevOps, collaboration is key to creating a new product as efficiently as possible. Cross-functional teamwork leads to a better working environment and effective teams.

Endless process

With DevOps, you remain continuously involved in all software development and delivery phases. It is an ongoing process that never stops. The goal is to make releases faster and more reliable.

Automation

Many companies lose time on manual tasks within their development processes. For example, building manual tests or production builds. This can be completely automated with DevOps, freeing up your team to focus on the tasks that matter.

Advantages of DevOps for software development

Agile organisation

With DevOps, you can adapt more quickly, allow for innovation, and grow efficiently. You become an agile organisation that can quickly respond to problems and anticipate them.

Quick delivery

With DevOps, software development is faster, resulting in a higher frequency of releases.

Reliability

DevOps provides good and reliable software, resulting in satisfied end-users. By continually monitoring software, bugs and errors are quickly noticed.

Improved collaboration between departments

Developers and operational teams work together, combining their workflows. As a result, they work more efficiently, saving money.

Disadvantage: Implementation requires a lot of effort

Implementing DevOps is not necessarily a disadvantage, but it can be a hurdle. The entire team must be on board and open to cross-functional collaborations. This can be challenging in traditional organisations, where everyone has their own established role.

Getting help choosing and implementing a software development methodology

If you are seeking additional guidance on selecting and implementing the appropriate software development method, we can assist you in ensuring that the process runs smoothly. To obtain further information and schedule a complimentary consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us. Alternatively, you can read more about our services and how we can cater to your specific needs.