Top 10 Custom Software Development Methodologies

Custom software development has become a pressing need for many organizations. Earlier it was not a necessary call, but today, with technology finding its way into our lives, it has become an essential part of the overall strategy. Custom software development cannot happen overnight. It has to be planned with goals, objectives, budget and time span that you need to execute the project. After factoring in these aspects, a development methodology is selected. 

The decision to decide on development methodology is incumbent on every single aspect of the project. Let us discuss some of the most popular methodologies and see for yourself which will go well with your project.

Top custom software development methodologies you can employ

Big Bang Methodology 

This methodology is for those simple projects where the client is unaware of what the requirements are how the project has to take shape. It has no rigid formal protocols and is quite uncomplicated.

The model is uncomplicated and does not require pre-hand planning. The different aspects of the project are manageable as the resources required are very minimal. But, it can be a risky model especially when the complexity of the project is high. 

Prototype Model

Software development involves different processes that need a stage by stage evaluation. One has understood the requirements of custom software development if a solid design or a prototype has to be created. In this model, the developers create the prototype solution for an effective demonstration to the client. Based on the client feedback, changes are then made to the prototype. 

The best part about this methodology is the reduction in failures and a stronger documentation procedure. But it can be burdensome as it might affect the project budget and cost. 

Waterfall Methodology

This is one of the oldest Software development methodologies and represents the classic life-cycle approach to software development. It has a set pattern and follows a rigid process. No phase can be overtaken by another before it is completed. The waterfall method follows a sequential flow and helps the orderly progress of custom software development without overlapping it. 

The method is suitable for projects of all shapes and sizes. The sequential flow ensures that the project has a functional flow and also is easier to follow. One can save a lot of time because everything has been planned well but if there is anything that is not discernible at any stage in the project, things might go haywire with the entire project. 

Agile Software development methodology

Change is permanent, especially in technology circuits. The agile software development methodology is one of the most popular methods employed by software development companies and is preferred by developers also. It allows for continuous changes in custom software development. The model is flexible and helps in the reduction of risks as the custom software is separated into tiny bits called iterations. Every sequence is defined by unique methods and practices which are dependent on the values expressed in the agile manifesto. 

Quick resolution and faster feedback is the biggest advantage that the method offers. Since everything is spread stage-wise, expensive errors also are avoided thanks to the testing done at every stage. Being a transparent system, it helps clients to keep a tab on the progress of the project. The project is not suitable for small-time projects and requires the finesse and experience of skilled professionals who already have good exposure in this method. 

Rapid Action development methodology

As the name implies this method aims at completing the project at a rapid pace. It includes a combination of both prototypes and agile to create faster iterations and designs so that the projects develop faster. Stage wise testing ensures resolution of errors and with the rapidity inserted in the project, you can be assured that the project completed well on time. 

Dynamic Systems Development Model Methodology

The model works on a rigid time-frame and also a fixed budget with a high user-involvement. The model has been formed on the premise that the developers of the custom software have to get continuous feedback leading to maximum functionality. This uses the Agile software development methodology also because it breaks down the project into iterations. Each bit then is taken forward with a unique set of methodologies and approaches. It also is based on the RAD model because of excessive user involvement. 

The project is delivered in bits at regular stages and with a restricted budget and time frames, you can deliver the project well on time and cost. It is an expensive method hence best for lengthy projects where the time frame is larger. 

Scrum methodology

Scrum Methodology also divides the working of the project into smaller modules. Every module is taken forward with a unique strategy. It takes into account the rapid transformations that the project might require. Regular meetings are held to ensure that changes are made then and there rather than implementing them when it is too late. 

The team involved in custom software development is responsible for decision making. Since the feedback cycle is swift and calls for change at various stages, the project can progress as per the desired way. 

Joint application development

This methodology for custom software comes when continuous interaction is required between the team. Many workshops are conducted to understand the aspects of the project. All the stakeholders attend the workshops and eliminate errors in the early stages of custom software development. The presence of an expert panel is a must in order to adopt this method. 

Spiral Model

Custom software development starts with smaller aspects of the project and then moves to bigger portions mainly to eliminate errors at every stage. The project moves spirally from one stage to another, eliminating risks and injecting feedback.

Since everything is systematized, the development procedure is disciplined and linear. But the time frame and the budget might go overboard as only complex projects can be executed with this model. 

Feature Driven Development

Based on user feedback features are added into the system. The entire execution of the project from designing to the building is all feature-based. In order to augment productivity and functionality, this methodology involves the use of iterations. This also helps in dealing with multiple complexities. It is a great method which can be employed for bigger projects. Since the SOP is pre-defined the developing procedure is highly simplified.

Every method has its own advantages and disadvantages but based on the nature of the project, a method that can be deemed suitable has to be selected. It is important that every method is pored over and then decide what will finally work.