Traditionally, systems development begins by defining specifications, clarifying terms, and establishing approved interpretations (Snyder & Cox, 1985). Adhering to clearly defined project boundaries helps to minimize waste during development and proactively resolve potential ambiguities. However, the assumption that system problems are understood solely by developers is flawed. Instead, an integrated, interdependent sequential system with broad support is crucial. A development environment that accommodates diverse participants and follows a predictable process requires rigorous planning and execution. In the waterfall system development methodology, participants complete their tasks sequentially in predefined stages of the SDLC (Nerur, Mahapatra, & Mangalaraj, 2005).
Another rationale for adopting the waterfall software development methodology stems from engineering principles that emphasize process improvement. Enhancing processes is believed to lead to perfection in system development. Because of its structured nature, the waterfall method fosters a process-focused culture that prioritizes planning, diagrams, formal techniques, and documentation. However, this rigid approach to programming and system development has limitations.
Poor production outcomes from traditional software development led to the integration of modern methodologies aimed at improving productivity and efficiency. Unlike the waterfall methodology, which emphasizes process over results, newer approaches such as Agile development emerged in response to its shortcomings (Korrapati & Kocherla, 2013). Agile development was driven by the need for flexibility and adaptability, leading to the Agile Manifesto, which sought to uncover better ways of developing software through practical experience and collaboration (Pope-Ruark, 2012).
The Agile SDLC method prioritizes collaboration and teamwork among self-organized developers. Agile teams work within a structured framework that emphasizes iterative and incremental releases, allowing new functionalities to be added in small, manageable phases. This approach enables repeated testing and enhancements through cyclical increments. Empowered and autonomous team members are better positioned to deliver products that align with customer requirements. In modern software development, technological advancements and regulatory demands necessitate the adoption of Agile methodologies. Frequent small releases and patches help ensure continuous updates and improvements to both new and existing applications.
Conclusion
Systems development methodologies continually evolve to meet changing customer needs, technological advancements, and socio-economic factors such as financial considerations and employment trends. Historically, corporate management systems relied on centralized, organization-wide applications. The dominance of traditional SDLC frameworks persisted until significant changes reshaped development methodologies. As computing power and technological sophistication grow, innovative problem-solving approaches based on collaboration and teamwork become essential. Leveraging specialized expertise through cooperative development teams maximizes the efficiency and effectiveness of system development resources.
Further Reading
Korrapati, R. B., & Kocherla, S. (2013, June). Measuring software project success in various stages of software development life cycle (SDLC) stages. Summer Internet Proceedings, 15, 51-54. Retrieved from [Cite the URL]
Nerur, S., Mahapatra, R., & Mangalaraj, G. (2005, May). Challenges of Migrating to Agile Methodologies. Communications of the ACM, 48(5), 73-78. Retrieved from [Cite the URL]
Pope-Ruark, R. (2012). We Scrum Every Day: Using Scrum Project Management Framework for Group Projects. College Teaching, 60(4), 164-169. doi:10.1080/87567555.2012.669425
Snyder, C. A., & Cox, J. F. (1985). A Dynamic Systems Development Life-Cycle Approach: A Project Management Information System. Journal of Management Information Systems, 2(1), 61-76. Retrieved November 14, 2016, from Business Source Complete.
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