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Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) Steps
The Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) is a structured process for planning, creating, testing, deploying, and maintaining software. Below is a comprehensive list of SDLC phases, each with a brief description of its purpose and activities.
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1. Requirement Analysis
Description: Gather and analyze project requirements to define the scope and objectives.
- Collaborate with stakeholders (clients, end-users, management) to understand needs.
- Document functional and non-functional requirements (e.g., features, performance, security).
- Create requirement specifications, user stories, or use cases.
- Validate requirements to ensure clarity, feasibility, and alignment with business goals.
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2. Feasibility Study
Description: Assess the project's viability from technical, financial, and operational perspectives.
- Evaluate technical feasibility (e.g., available technology, expertise).
- Analyze cost-benefit and resource requirements.
- Identify risks and constraints (e.g., time, budget, technology limitations).
- Produce a feasibility report to guide decision-making.
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3. System Design
Description: Create a blueprint for the software system based on requirements.
- Define system architecture (e.g., monolithic, microservices, cloud-based).
- Design components, modules, databases, and interfaces.
- Specify tools, frameworks, and technologies to be used.
- Create detailed design documents, including flowcharts, ER diagrams, and wireframes.
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4. Development (Coding)
Description: Write code to implement the system design.
- Assign tasks to developers based on design specifications.
- Use programming languages, frameworks, and tools to build software components.
- Follow coding standards and best practices (e.g., modularity, documentation).
- Conduct regular code reviews to ensure quality and consistency.
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5. Testing
Description: Verify that the software meets requirements and is free of defects.
- Perform unit testing to validate individual components.
- Conduct integration testing to ensure modules work together.
- Execute system testing to verify the entire system’s functionality.
- Perform user acceptance testing (UAT) to confirm the software meets user needs.
- Identify and fix bugs, ensuring performance, security, and usability.
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6. Deployment
Description: Release the software to the production environment for end-user access.
- Plan deployment strategy (e.g., phased rollout, big bang).
- Set up production environments (servers, databases, configurations).
- Deploy the software using automated tools or manual processes.
- Monitor initial performance and address any immediate issues.
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7. Maintenance
Description: Provide ongoing support to ensure the software remains functional and relevant.
- Monitor system performance and address issues (e.g., bugs, crashes).
- Release updates or patches to fix defects or improve functionality.
- Incorporate user feedback to enhance features or usability.
- Plan for scalability, security updates, and compatibility with new technologies.
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8. Retirement (Optional)
Description: Decommission the software when it becomes obsolete or is replaced.
- Plan for data migration to new systems if needed.
- Archive code, documentation, and data for compliance or future reference.
- Notify users and stakeholders of the software’s end-of-life.
- Safely shut down the system and dispose of resources.