Explain SDLC with an example

 

The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process that enables the production of high-quality, low-cost software, in the shortest possible production time. The goal of the SDLC is to produce superior software that meets and exceeds all customer expectations and demands. It consists with 6 stages.

Figure 01 : Software Development Life Cycle

I would like to illustrate the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) with an example of developing a mobile application.

1.     Requirement Analysis –

In this phase, the development team works closely with stakeholders to gather and analyze requirements for the software application. The goal is to clearly define what the software should do, its features, functionalities, and user expectations. We use Project plan and the Functional Requirement Specification in this stage and Produce User stories, use cases, and acceptance criteria.

According to the mobile application, stakeholders express the need for a mobile application that allows users to create, manage, and track their tasks efficiently. Requirements include features such as task creation, priority setting, due dates, reminders, and user authentication. For example, Stakeholders provide detailed specifications, including user stories, wireframes, and acceptance criteria.

Figure 02: Requirement Analysis stage in SDLC

2.     Design –

Based on the requirements gathered, the development team creates a detailed design for the software application. This includes defining the architecture, components, data models, user interface (UI), and user experience (UX) design. In here create High-level design documents, system architecture diagrams, UI/UX mockups, and prototypes.

In mobile application, Designers create mockups and prototypes of the mobile application's user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). Architects design the application's architecture, including databases, APIs, and client-server communication such as Designers create wireframes showing the layout of the task management app's screens, while architects design the backend infrastructure to support user authentication, task storage, and data synchronization.

Figure 03: Design stage in SDLC

3.     Implementation (Coding) –

In this phase, developers write code to implement the design and build the software application. They use programming languages, frameworks, and development tools appropriate for the project requirements.

Developers start coding the mobile application according to the design specifications. They use programming languages and development frameworks.

Developers write codes for iOS or Android to implement features such as task creation, editing, and deletion. They integrate with backend APIs for user authentication and data storage.

 

Figure 04: Implementation stage in SDLC

4.     Testing –

The testing phase involves verifying and validating the software to ensure it meets quality standards and performs as expected. In here, various types of testing are performed, including integration testing, system testing, and user acceptance testing (UAT). Testers use test plan, test cases and test scripts for testing and they create test reports in this stage.

When we consider about the mobile application, here also use various types of testing to ensure that the application functions correctly meet requirements and provide a seamless user experience. For example, testers verify that t5asks can be creates, edited and delete successfully and test different scenarios such as creating tasks with different priorities, setting due dates and receive reminders. Usability testing ensures that the app is intuitive and easy to use.

Figure 05: Testing stage in SDLC

5.     Deployment –

Once the software has been thoroughly tested and approved, it is deployed to a production environment where it can be accessed by end-users. This may involve setting up servers, configuring databases, and installing the software on target systems.

Once testing is complete and the mobile application is approved for release, it is deployed to the respective app stores such as Apple App Store, Google Play Store or distributed internally within organizations. That means task management app is submitted to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for review and approval. Once approved, it becomes available for download to users on their mobile devices.

 

Figure 06: Deployment stage in SDLC

6.     Maintenance –

After deployment, the development team provides ongoing maintenance and support for the software application. This includes addressing bug fixes, releasing updates with new features or improvements, and providing technical support to users.

In here, development team monitors user feedback and bug reports, releasing regular updates to address issues and enhance the app's functionality. They also provide customer support to assist users with any questions or problems they encounter.

Figure 07: Maintenance stage in SDLC

According to that, throughout the SDLC, the development team follows a systematic approach, collaborates effectively, and uses appropriate tools and methodologies to deliver a high-quality mobile application that meets the needs of its users and stakeholders.