Methodologies for Application Development
The methodologies for application developmentare frameworks for planning and structuring the development of software. Following are the different methodologies that are used widely in modern application development:
1. Agile Methodology
Agile Methodologies target risk minimization by dividing the entire software development project into time frames called “iterations.” Each iteration runs overa short duration and is complete in itself as it delivers a mini project of software in it.
There is also emphasis in direct communication and so this methodology produces very less written documentation.
2. Crystal Methods
This is also a part of the Agile technique. This gives emphasis on the development team and process comes secondary in this methodology. Crystal methods are based upon adoption of a process dependent upon the skillset of the team.
3. Dynamic Systems Development Model
This evolved from RAD methodologies and is widely popular across Europe. It consists of nine principles that are based upon the belief that no development technique is perfectly executed in the first attempt.
4. Extreme Programming (XP)
XP is a flexible development methodology usually adopted in unstable environments. Its core practices can be grouped into four areas –fine scale feedback, continuous process rather than batch, shared understanding, and programmer welfare. There is a general notion that XP is best executed by a small team but there have been instances where very large teams have successfully pulled off a project with XP.
5. Feature Driven development (FDD)
FDD promotes team creativity and innovation while ensuring scalability and repeatability. It consists of some simple processes – developing an overall model, building a feature list, planning feature wise, designing by feature, and building by feature.
6. Joint Application development (JAD)
JAD involves client participation in the design and development of application through a series of workshops called JAD sessions. It is best suited for business systems and aims less use of formal methodologies and reusing software components.
7. Lean development (LD)
LD is based upon 12 principles and is characterized by its dynamic stability. Similar to Scrum, it is basically a methodology based upon the tolerance of changes.
8. Rapid Application development (RAD)
This uses rapid development language for fast implementation as compared to traditional programming languages. Thus, RAD enables shorter construction cycles. It is mainly based upon object oriented methodology.
9. Rational Unified Process (RUP)
RUP is an iterative approach that combines the best practices of modern methodologies to make it suitable for adoptionby different projects.
10. Scrum
Scrum is also an Agile method enhancing team productivity.It uses a ‘Scrum Master’ who seeks to lower the destabilizing influences.It focuses on Agile methods for facing challenges.
11. Spiral
This is an extension of Waterfall Methodology and is chosen for big projects.
12. Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
It is a hybrid methodology with a combination of different models. Documentation is important and executed alongside the development process.
13. Waterfall
A type of SDLC.It is a classic, linear, and rigid approach to application development. It allows control at departmental and managerial levels.
Authored by Mary William. Mary is a no-nonsense application developer. Her primary aim in building apps is to maintain a high degree of usability and ease of use for the users. All the unnecessary clutter that confuses a user is too much for her. If she spots one small feature or needless interaction – she’ll make it more useful or remove it. Her applications remain to the point. To know more about her work visit: