Comparative Analysis of Software Development Life Cycle Models (SDLC)

Abstract

Software Engineering encompasses a lot of processes of which writing of efficient codes for development of high quality and effective programs is one of them. Development of quality software is achieved through a well-articulated Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) model. Delivery of software project within timeline and budget require thorough analysis from which these two pertinent questions must be answered such as what shall we do next and how long shall we continue to do it’? Therefore, the need for an appropriate SDLC model for a software project is of high significance. V-Model is applicable in project that requires a lot of time and are complex in nature. When the focus of the project is more of quality than fast delivery time, then V-Model is a choice of SDLC to be considered. Also, Waterfall model is desirable when quality control is of concern with short project duration. On the other hand, Spiral Model is desirable when organizational expectations are unpredictable concerning the software development process. Irrespective of the size of the project, delivery time and level of expertise involved, the organization of the project plays a significant role in the choice of SDLC model. SDLC model under consideration, must take into cognizance the level of risk, duration of the project and cost implication associated with every software project for successful completion. Comparative analysis of the three SDLC models studied was presented.