A System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a six-step series that project teams use to help them design, analyze, conceptualize and construct new Information Technology (IT).
Following the SDLC is the best way to create a successful IT system, as it reduces the risk of product failure and increases accuracy and efficiency.
Below is each step in the series, which helps clients receive the best software solutions possible:
1. Planning Phase
Developers determine both the objective and the concept of a project during this phase as well as the requirements for producing the final product. Developers also use the information in this phase to estimate resources, including overall costs and personnel.
2. Project Analysis
During this phase, the team determines end-user requirements with the help of client focus groups. Focus groups provide an explanation of user needs and expectations for the product. Once the team gets all the requirements determined and receives approval from management, they can move forward with the design.
3. Product Design
The design phase includes developing the flow of data processing into charts, which the team uses to help determine the best structure and design for storage and data flow. For user interface, they design mock-up screen layouts for the developers. These mock-ups then help developers write the code for the real interface.
4. Construction Phase
Construction consists of developers executing the plans created during the design phase. They generate the code for data flow, design the database and create the user interface screens. The construction phase also includes creating test data, which, once processed, refines the code.
5. Testing
All aspects of the system receive testing, including performance and functionality, during this phase. This testing involves:
- Verifying that the system contains all user requirements
- Ensuring the new system works with other systems or software solutions
- Checking that the new system meets established quality standards
- Ensuring all functions are accurately processing data
6. Rollout Phase
During rollout, customers are introduced to the new system as a full-scale conversion or update. Clients and users submit feedback to the developers which allows developers to notice, record and tweak any mishandled data or performance issues.