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If you’re looking for a great new career, working in software development might be exactly what you’re after! With an expected industry growth rate of 22% between 2020 and 2030, businesses in every sector need talented developers to deliver top-tier software.
If you’re thinking of switching careers, you’ll first want a proper understanding of what the software development process looks like.
Below, we’ll walk you through the five basic steps and explain the significance of each. Make sure to keep reading!
Research
Before the best software finds its way to clients, developers must first decide on a set of criteria for the project. This may include:
- Scope of the project
- Ideal clientele
- Similar types of software on the market
- Project goals
- The best programming language to use
- Expected software development lifecycle
The more information a development team has before starting the project, the easier it is to deliver a product that pleases clients.
This stage is particularly crucial for those using software development services, as it also serves as an introduction to the client.
Conceptualization
During the next phase, a software development team gets to work creating a prototype. It’s worth noting, however, that these prototypes are often rough and rarely feature all of the planned elements.
This section helps decide a user interface and basic functionality. With that said, some clients will expect a more fleshed-out concept than others.
Development
Now it’s time to get to the actual programming! The development process is the most straightforward and often flies by the fastest.
The programming team will use the criteria and conceptualization information established in the previous steps to build a functioning version of the client’s desired software.
Think of this as the first draft of a manuscript. It will likely turn out rough at first, but the dev build should provide clients with a full picture of the software’s functionality.
Testing/Debugging
Following the development build presentation, the dev team sets to work addressing the client’s feedback and incorporating changes.
This section is often shorter than the development process but may still take a few weeks depending on the project’s scope. It’s also during this section that developers become aware of what isn’t necessarily feasible for the final product.
It’s also during this phase that the team works out any bugs in the software.
Release/Refinement
Once the client is satisfied with the team’s work, it’s time for release! However, the dev team’s work isn’t quite done.
They’ll need to monitor user data to stay ahead of any potential issues.
It may also be necessary to conduct routine maintenance and patches throughout the product’s lifecycle.
The Software Development Process Made Simple
Thanks for checking out our quick look at the average development process! We hope you understand the basics a bit more.
Don’t forget, you don’t have to go through the entire software development process on your own. Whether you outsource the entirety of your project or just one of the five elements listed above, you may end up with a better product and a better budget.
For more tips on developing world-class software, or finding those who can help you execute your great ideas, be sure to check out the rest of our blog content!
Also Read: Software Development Challenges to Lookout in 2022
