At first, custom software development sounds like an easy option. But only an IT person can understand the complexities associated with it.  Juggling between the evolving technologies and choosing the right Software Development Methodology is hard. Whereas, finding the most optimum way to reach the development goals takes time and effort. 

So, every custom software development involves some elements of risks and complexity. This is why Bruce Eckel, author of Thinking in Java and Thinking in C++, noted: 

“Programming is about managing complexity: the complexity of the problem, laid upon the complexity of the machine. Because of this complexity, most of our programming projects fail.”

In order to manage the potential risks of custom software development, we have listed six significant risks that need to be checked and mitigated by your software development company.

1. Being Overly Fervid

Getting excited about the new project is natural for any developer. So, when an idea of development pops up, it’s a common desire to start working on it and deliver a solution that can solve real-life problems.

The risk involved here is that being overly fervid can divert you from the track. Adding too many features and functionalities can extend the timeline and cost of the project. It may also sometimes result in higher complexity of the project.

To avoid this custom software development risk, developers should start with creating MVP – Minimum Viable Product. This method will keep you on track and focused on the most important features of your project. Also, adopting the MVP approach, you can align your project budget and timeline in a sorted manner, safeguarding against the risk of being overly fervid at the starting phase of any new project.

2. Undefined Goals

Not having definite goals at any phase of the development can be troublesome. You can get off track from the development process without even realizing it. Undefined Goals are crucial risks in a custom software development process that are needed to be mitigated at the beginning phase.

To manage this risk you can stick to the below given set of questions at any point in your development process:

• Which real-life problems would be solved by this software?
• Who will be the target audience for us?
• What would be the endpoint where the problem will be considered as solved?
• What benefits do you get from the software – Efficiency, Cost Saving, Productivity, Flexibility, Reliability, and so on?
• Would this software be beneficial in the long term?
• What is the MVP for this project?

These questions at any point can help you to be on track. And revisiting them from time to time will maintain project clarity.

3. Poor Team Communication

Success of custom software development is dependent on teamwork. When multiple people work on same project, it is necessary to have them united.

Software development firms generally have big teams. Such teams consist of Designers, Developers, Testers and many more peoples. Where each member of the team is interdependent on other members. 

In such a situation, lack of communication between team members could be perilous for your project. This could divert the track of the project or result in complete failure.

To mitigate this risk of custom software development, smooth communication needs to be maintained. A proper flow of communication can be defined at the beginning of the project. This will increase the involvement of each team member in overall communication. 

Moreover, it will identify the basic requirement and help in concentrating on these requirements as a team. Which would result in delivering the desired product on time. Apart from that, communication should be handled well between the software development company and the client.

4. Inaccurate Budget Estimation

As discussed above, Poor team communication can lead to Project failure. This can also lead to misidentification of requirements and defining clear goals. In the end, it would result in an inaccurate budget estimation for the project.

Apart from communication, transparency between the custom software development service provider and client is necessary. By maintaining high transparency, end goals can be determined easily. 

Stakeholders involved in the project need to have clear understanding of requirements before beginning the development.  This will help in getting clear budget estimation and define a roadmap for the whole development process. 

With accurate requirements of the project it is easy to choose the suitable custom software development methodology. As these methodologies play a vital role in cost estimation, you must be aware about them. Know more about custom software development methodologies.

5. Substandard Development Process

There are lots and lots of software development companies out there. However, not all development companies have expertise in customized software. In order to make a custom software project successful, you need to hire the firm that is best in business.  

Not all companies have an understanding of choosing the right process for development. And if the development process is not good enough then software solution wouldn’t be great either.

This Custom software development risk can be mitigated by choosing a right software development company. It would be best if you look for a company that follows best industry practices. And before moving further, you also should check the qualification of their teams to avoid any development risks.

6. Improper Implementation

A good project needs exemplary implementation. It sometimes happens that softwares are built and then abandoned without proper implementation.

You need to make sure that your employees understand and adapt to this new software. Employees’s interest needs to be maintained in software so they can utilize it well. At the end, this implementation should make the work-life of your employees better. 

Concluding Thought

You need to make sure that your custom software development project is risk free and adds value to your work. The project’s payment, process and timeline related details must be adequately discussed. Every aspect must be covered from your end so risks involved in custom software development can be handled efficiently. 

Sigma Data System is a Custom Software Development Company that offers simplified solutions to most complex problems. Before working on any project, we dive into collecting requirements, validating the idea, and planning the solution. Our simple yet quality-obsessed approach in custom software development service helps our globally diversified clients to stay ahead of their competition. Let’s connect and convert your beautiful idea into an innovative solution with us. 

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If your business has unique requirements that are not delivered by Off-The-Shelf software in the market, then developing custom software is the crux of the matter. You can customize a product for your business that suits your market needs.

Deploying custom-built software will raise the value of your organization and your business processes. Also, the increased productivity and full-time support from vendors’ end will give you a competitive edge over those who choose to stick to poorly structured readymade software.

Which is why, choosing a custom development approach for your business is beneficial in multiple ways.  Let’s take a look at some of its significant benefits.

1. Specific Solution To Business Needs

Every business has its own needs, and commercial software may not exactly fit into those requirements. Customized solutions are the best option in such cases as they are specifically designed keeping your requirements in mind. They are designed and developed  to completely align with the business model, process, and unique workflow of the organization. Deploying such a solution helps in better utilization of resources.

2. High Scalability

A complete set of features needed to run the business can be made available in custom software, which would help improve work performance without investing in a premium version of commercial software. Such IT-Solutions are developed with an architecture that allows users to scale their software on a higher note without affecting its productivity. Scalability often brings new features, designs, services, resources, and functionalities to your software. 

3. Complete Ownership

While using COTS, one must always remember that they do not have ownership of the product they are using. In fact, they are paying a handsome amount of monthly fees to use someone else’s product bound by their rules, features, functionalities, and version updates. However, in the case of custom software, a user gets complete control over the solution. Also, the source code of the customized solution is owned by the user. So if a user is looking for a long-term solution then having its complete ownership is beneficial for their business.

4. Integration With Ease

One of the main concerns in commercial software is that it may not integrate with the existing infrastructure, application, or processes. On the other hand, custom software is designed to integrate seamlessly with the organization’s existing environment. This would result in better technology adoption, easier data exchange, and improved productivity of the business. The flow of work is maintained easily as there is no communication gap between your multiple businesses ‘ software.

5. Cost-Effective

Commercial software may seem cheaper initially, but they have recurring monthly or yearly fees depending upon their subscription model. Sometimes, users need more features as their business requirements grow over time. For that, they purchase premium versions and eventually end up paying more to the vendors. This costs them a considerable amount in the long term. When considering Custom software, their upfront cost may seem high, but there are no hidden charges or fees to be paid to the custom software development companies, which results in a cost-effective way. This makes it a highly cost-effective proposition.

6. Flexibility 

As a business grows and technology advances, there would be a need for better and highly flexible software to meet user requirements. Processes in an organization may change over time and the current software may not suit those processes, whereas custom software can be easily modified according to changing business needs. One can always add and remove features, modify the interface, improve performance in their customized software. Changes in the working methods could be easily implemented to your software if it  is custom made. You don’t need to align your workflow according to your software, as your custom-made solution can be molded as per organization’s workflow.

7. Security

To make the business data highly secure, Customized software solutions are the best. External cybersecurity threats can be easily avoided in bespoke solutions as they are not publicly accessible. Users can configure the security measures and protocols as per their requirements, which helps to implement security with higher standards. With custom software development, you get the advantage of choosing the right protection for yourself. Besides that, a robust Service Level Agreement (SLA) will back you up from your software development vendor in case of any security issues. 

8. Increased Productivity

As customized software solutions are personally designed for your organization, their productivity is definitely higher than any other readymade software. This is because all the business processes are aligned most suitably to reduce employees’ workload. Also, some boring, repetitive processes can be automated in Custom software, which increases its overall productivity.

9. Privacy

Privacy is one of the main concerns for the organization in choosing custom products and software development. You get the desired hierarchy of workflow by choosing customized software. This means no one can access the database and manipulate it without authentication. And these authentications are set by the admin, which manages data and processes privacy at every particular level. User can allocate authentications based on the job role and responsibilities of an employee. So, other employees have access to resources, data and processes to a granted level only and privacy is managed easily. 

Conclusion

There are tons of benefits in using custom software development. As the trend is clearly moving towards customized solutions, these are the outlined benefits of custom software development.

Regardless of the industry you are in and your requirements, custom software is suitable to most organizations willing to have more business in the future. With the use of Bespoke, one can have a long-term strategy in place. 

If you are looking for a business solution and somehow you still have doubt then, Sigma Data Systems can help solve all of your doubts. To get in touch Click Here.

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In such a situation, one may have questions like how Custom software is different from Off-The-Shelf Software?

Which software to choose between bespoke and commercial software? Or which one is the better software? – Custom or off-the-shelf software.

However, one can find the answer to such questions through the comparison given below.

1. Bespoke And Off-the-shelf Software – what are they?

Bespoke 

Software of this type is perfectly tailored as per the needs of an individual or an organization. Such software directly reflects the unique features and processes followed by the organization.

These solutions are tailored entirely for the exact specification of yours.  The software is designed according to the specific requirements of your business.

These solutions are developed to fit into an existing work system, so you do not have to change your working model for the software. As this solution is tailored for your business and you own its source code, there is no issue in integrating it with your existing system.

Off-The-Shelf

It is a readymade solution offered by a software provider which you buy and use without customization. Such software is adjusted to client’s needs in a limited way, and its workflow may not be fully optimized.

This pre-packaged software is designed for multiple business models to target a large number of audiences. Getting an Off-The-Shelf  that perfectly fits your requirement is problematic.

Using commercial software can lead to a complicated situation where you may not use all its features or lack the necessary ones at some point in your organization.

2. Some Development Approaches Of Bespoke And Off-The-Shelf Software

The choice of the user depends on their business requirements, specifications, budget, and many other factors. People who choose commercial software look for a reputed vendor and its software simplicity. While people who choose customized software look for scalability and flexibility which can be useful in a long-term strategy.

There are tons of arguments that stand on each side, but you have to find which type of software is more beneficial to you? After going through these development approaches, you will have a clear idea about the most suitable software for your business.

Flexibility And Customizability

Bespoke  

You have full control over the process in a bespoke solution as it is designed explicitly to meet their unique requirements. Such software easily adapts to the growth of your business. Generally, bespoke is easy to use as its design is highly flexible. With the high flexibility of software, it allows processes and business to expand when necessary. Its high flexibility also efficiently manages the workload.

If the work model of the company changes at any point in time, bespoke solutions can be customized accordingly. This gives full control over the software that you are using. Changes in requirements usually happen over time, and in such cases, customizability of bespoke is helpful. One can customize their bespoke software according to their need and efficiently achieve their goals.

Off-The-Shelf

For every task and requirement, there is software available in the market. Off-The-Shelf are made for the generic audience, so they are not very flexible. Here, the control over the software and its work process is minimum. You cannot twist its workflow or procedures according to your requirements.

Sometimes, commercial application features are not useful, and a user can not customize, remove, or add the lacking ones. There is no complete ownership given in Off-the-Shelf software. This decreases the customizability and makes it complex to align with the changing process of your organization. However, In some cases, you have the authority to customize your commercial software. But, for that, you need to find a vendor and pay a handsome amount to customize it.

Execution And Integration

Bespoke

Generally, using bespoke software is easier because it is designed solely for an organization. Changes can be done in bespoke at any point to make it more comfortable to use. Also, the interface in it is designed to keep its execution simple. Your teams  will not require any specialized skills to use a Bespoke solution.

Seamless software integration with the existing system, data, and the process is the key consideration in choosing it. Bespoke can be integrated with the most complex structure of the industries. This also increases the operational efficiency of your business. Besides, database integration complexities and adding plugins are easily possible in it.

Off-The-Shelf

If one chooses Off-The-Shelf software for their organization, they may not adapt to its interface, layout, or work process. This can sometimes lead to complications. And your teams need to get used to the software as there is no other choice left for you. They may sometimes need training in understanding and operating the readymade solution.

Integrating such software with the existing solutions and procedures is very complicated. There is no surety that Off-The-Shelf would be compatible with the infrastructure of your organization. Besides that, Lack of compatibility may create resistance in your work environment. Such scenarios may cause limitations in your business or may lower the overall productivity.

Features And Functionality

Bespoke 

It is built alongside the organization’s process so all the required features are added while developing a bespoke.  Later on, if users do not like those features or their requirement changes, additional features can be easily added. This process is easy to execute as you have the source code and all rights of your solution.

One of the main advantages here is that clients can deliver their ideas and shape the functionalities to their exact needs. This allows users to have full control over its bespoke solution. You can get all the functionalities that you are looking for in software when it is personally customized.

Off-The-Shelf 

       Off-The-Shelf are designed for a majority of audience and not for an individual, so features are given accordingly. Sometimes, required elements may be lacking, while sometimes excessive features that are not useful to you are provided in it. while adding the lacking features in off-The-Shelf is very hard.

Functionalities in Off-The-Shelf are added by keeping a large audience base in mind.  This can create confusion and complexities at the time of use. Besides that, users do not have control over the functionality in the majority of cases. So, making changes with the inbuilt functionalities of software is nearly impossible.

Support And Maintenance

Bespoke

You can directly communicate with the vendor of your bespoke solution whenever needed. This allows you to solve queries faster and in an effective way. Support services offered by the vendor are personalized, which feels more reliable. You can ask for the support before and after the purchase of software from your vendor. We can say that availability of support services in Bespoke is full-time.

Maintenance of solution depends upon the vendor and the service level agreement you had with them. One can have maintenance service with ease if they require it from the vendor side. At the same time, in-house maintenance can also be done. This totally depended upon your choice.

Off-The-Shelf

Many people access this type of software, so direct communication with the vendor is not possible here. However, there are online help and support functions to answer frequently generating queries. But, if your query is not found in those online functions, then the situation can be troublesome. Support services in some commercial applications are slow, while some of them are reliable. But there are very few solutions that offer full-time or personalized support services.

While in most cases responsibility for maintenance is solely on you. If  the number of your users are high and your software database is thick then its maintenance may be troublesome. In case, if the vendor is offering maintenance, they may charge a good amount for it.

Time And Money Expenses

Bespoke

Bespoke solutions generally take a few months for designing, development, testing, and deployment. This time depends upon the complexity of the solution, its features, and size. It is also dependent on the software development company you are choosing and the team strength allocated to your project.

Bespoke’s initial cost is a little high as it is tailor-made for unique specifications. Such software is designed for the company’s long-term growth, increased operational efficiency, and productivity. There are no recurring fees to be paid for the subscription of Bespoke So, the users eventually end up saving expenses over the long run.

Off-The-Shelf

One of the benefits of Off-The-Shelf software is that users can start using it right away. They only need to choose from the multiple options available to them. Such solutions can be deployed within no time, and you can start using them immediately.

As readymade solution vendors target a large user base, their prices are kept affordable.  And the cost of such a solution may fluctuate depending upon the recurring subscription model and access to users. As you access higher subscriptions and choose additional features, its prices gradually increase. But it has recurring fees to be paid monthly or yearly, which makes it costly when used for a long term.

Security And Threats

Bespoke

Security in personalized software can be deployed as per your need. This is dependent on your business type and its requirements.  If the data you deal with is highly confidential, you can ask your vendor to set up a higher security protocol level.  Data protection given in such software is high. Besides that, you do not share your data with the vendor, which automatically increases its security.

Threat management in Bespoke is easy as hackers do not prefer to target it without any personal reason. It is usually hard to get into a software that is deployed in-house. In any case, if a security issue arises, then it could be resolved quickly by your vendor.

Off-The-Shelf

The vendor in Off-The-Shelf software sets security standards. If you opt for a solution from a reputed vendor, then its security standards are usually high. But the privacy and data confidentiality is not entirely in your hand. As the database is shared with the vendor, it downgrades overall security.

Such software is a common target of hackers as their database is enriched with lots of customer data. Threat management is not easy in such cases, and solving any security issue may take time. This may lead you to downtime of software for that period.

3. Sigma Data Systems Can Help

You can see there is a vast difference between Bespoke and Off-The-Shelf Software. Both types of software have their advantages and disadvantages considering different factors.

Generally, Bespoke is seen as a long-term benefit, while Off-the-Shelf is a short-term benefit for any organization. If an organization or an entrepreneur is looking for business growth, they should proceed with bespoke solutions.

At Sigma Data Systems, we are experts in custom software development. We can develop the software needed for your business or customize your existing software and add required features to it.

With our seamless integration service, we can help you get better work quality and high productivity. Working closely with our team will help you get satisfactory post-sales services such as full-time maintenance and support, software training, and management.

Sigma Data Systems is a perfect place to start with your bespoke solution today. If you are still unsure, you can learn more about the Importance of custom software and the methodologies involved in software development. 

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Introduction to the software development methodology

The software development methodology is a sequence of processes used in software development. We can say that it is a kind of framework where you structure, plan and control the whole development process. It includes standard processes like design, development, and implementation.

Methodologies play a significant role in developing customized software. The style of development and the system we put to use does impact the success of the project. Selection of development methodology largely depends on the team size, organization or product goals, and other factors. Each methodology has advantages and disadvantages associated with it. But the primary purpose of these methodologies is to have a smooth and effective software development process depending upon the project requirements. After reviewing the methodologies given below, you will easily be able to choose the suitable one for your project.

1. Big Bang Methodology

This methodology is usually used for small and simple projects where the client is unsure about their project requirements and how it would take shape during deployment. Pre-planning is not required as there are no rigid or formal protocols in this methodology.

Pros of Big Bang Methodology

• This model is straightforward to use.
• Doesn’t need proactive planning.
• Minimal resource requirement.
• Very easy to manage at every stage.
• Offers high flexibility to developers.
• Suitable for beginners, learners, and students.

Cons of Big Bang Methodology

• It has very high risks and uncertainty.
• Not at all suitable for complex and object-oriented projects.
• It is a weak model for long-term or ongoing projects.
• There are chances of the project getting scrapped.
• It can be costly if requirements are misunderstood.

2. Agile Software Development Methodology

Agile software development or agile development methodology is one of the popular methods adopted by software development companies and usually preferred by developers. It allows developers and clients to make continuous changes at any phase in a custom software development process.

 The agile method is one of the most flexible development models and reduces the risk by separating the process into small time intervals. 

The agile methodology follows a sequence of unique procedures and practices. This allows developers to implement the best fitting solution in the custom software development process.

Pros of Agile Software Development Methodology

• Rapid and continuous delivery of software.
• High client satisfaction.
• People and interactions are essential rather than processes or tools.
• Its adaptive approach can quickly meet changing requirements.
• Two-way communication between client and vendor reduces the error margins.
• The development process divided into parts helps to manage, test, and deliver the best quality software.

Cons of Agile Software Development Methodology

• Lack of proper documentation
• Need precise requirements regarding the final outcome or project may divert from the track.
• Requires a highly experienced team.
• It does not have a definite structure, so some projects may face difficulty at the starting phase.

3. Waterfall Model

The waterfall model is one of the oldest and most popular methodologies in custom software development. It is also known as a linear sequential life cycle model. A majority of businesses consider it as a classic life cycle approach to software development.

 It is a stiff model that follows a definite pattern and has some preconditions. Every phase has to be followed before moving to another, and overlapping among them is not possible.

The Waterfall Model has sequential phases namely: 

1.    Requirement Gathering and Analysis

2.    System Design

3.    Implementation (Coding)

4.     Integration and testing

5.    Deployment

6.    Maintenance

Pros of Waterfall Model

• Simple to understand and use.
• Easy to manage projects due to rigidity.
• Suitable for small as well as big projects.
• Clearly defined stages.
• Milestones are well-understood.
• Tasks can be arranged easily.
• Timeline for every phase and whole project can be determined precisely, and it is very time-saving.

Cons of Waterfall Model

• Deployment is possible in only the last stage of the model.
• It has very high risks and uncertainty involved in it.
• Not a good model for complex and object-oriented projects.
• Not suitable for long-term and ongoing projects.
• Measuring the progress of an ongoing project at any stage is not possible.
• This model is not for the projects where there are chances of requirements being changed.
• We could not accommodate the project with the changing requirement.
• Client’s feedback cannot be included in the ongoing development phase.
• This model is not applicable to projects that demand continuous maintenance.
• Documentation process takes a lot of time.

4. Spiral Model

Spiral Model starts with the smaller aspect of the project and then moves to larger sections to identify and eliminate risks at an earlier development stage. Software development companies start with the smaller modules and then proceed to bigger ones to carry forward a systematic flow. Risks at every stage are handled, and the next step or iteration is taken. The project’s movement is a spiral shape from one module to another, eliminating risks and injecting feedback.

Pros of Spiral Model

• Changing requirements can be easily accommodated.
• Cost estimation is straightforward.
• Risks are eliminated at the early stages.
• Highly disciplined development procedure.
• Suitable for large size and critical projects.
• Faster development and symmetrical addition of features.
• Suitable for high risks and requirement fluctuating projects.
• Development process is divided into smaller parts that help in better risk management and project deployment.

Cons of Spiral Model

• It is a costly development model.
• Success is highly dependent on risk analysis.
• Not suitable for low-risk projects.
• Continuous implementation of changes stretches the project deadline.
• Lengthy documentation due to multiple phases.
• Management of custom software development processes is complex.
• Chances of going over the timeframe and budget.

5. Scrum Development Methodology

Scrum Methodology divides projects into smaller modules and decides work for every module simultaneously with a different strategy. Like Agile development, Scrum development is also a popular methodology. It can be applied to any project, especially where there is a requirement for rapid change. Software development is done rapidly through Scrum as it allows a series of iterations in a single go. It can easily bring the slowest moving projects on track.

Scrum has three sequential phases :

1.    Planning

2.    Meeting

3.    Conclusion

Pros of Scrum Development Methodology

• Entire decision-making responsibility is on the development team.
• Project development can be tracked, and frequent updates on the progress are received.
• Short sprints and feedback make the process changes easier.
• Developers could deliver a high-quality product on time.

Cons of Scrum Development Methodology

• Getting the project to an end is difficult as clients demand new functionality and changes.
• Need highly accurate time and cost estimation.
• It is not suitable for large-size and long-term projects.
• This methodology requires a highly experienced team.
• Need trust and flexibility in the relationship between scrum masters and their teams.
• Regression testing is required at every phase.

6. Prototype Model / Prototype Methodology

Prototype Model involves different processes to go through stage by stage evolution. Before making a prototype, software requirements are needed to be understood clearly, and proper market research is required to be done. Prototype Methodology allows developers to create only a prototype of solutions and represent it to the client. Then necessary changes can be made according to the feedback of the client. The best feature of Prototype is that it solves the issues occurring in Waterfall Model.

Pros of Prototype Model / Prototype Methodology

• Instant prototype shown to the client helps in a clear understanding of the project.
• High customer satisfaction.
• Analysis and feedback from client help in accurate delivery of the project.
• Potential risks are identified at early stages, and mitigation steps are taken quickly.
• Reduced time and costs as risks are mitigated at an early stage.
• Missing functions can be added easily.
• Up to date documentation is easily possible.

Cons of Prototype Model / prototype Methodology

• Development of a prototype is needed to be done with minimal cost and resources, or it may affect the budget.
• Multiple changes from the client can disturb the project’s flow.
• As the scope of a project expands, its complexities also broaden.
• Efforts invested in the prototype are high.

7. Joint Application Development Methodology (JAD Model)

There is a continuous interaction between developers, designers, and clients in joint Application Development Methodology or JAD Model. During the development process, several off-site meetings and conferences are conducted to finalize the software system. JAD Methodology involves the client in the design and development of an application. The primary purpose of the JAD Model is to eliminate business errors in the earlier stages of development.

Pros of Joint Application Development (JAD Model)

• Errors are eliminated at the early stage of development.
• Large amount of information is gathered from the meetings.
• Due to Information, the Cost and time required for project development are less.
• Well defined requirements improve development quality.

Cons of Joint Application Development (JAD Model)

• Scheduling and planning phase requires a lot of time from the developer’s team.
• Required highly trained and experienced personals to run the project.
• Difference in the opinion of internal team members makes it complicated.

8. Feature Driven Development (FDD Model)

Feature Driven Development also known as the FDD Model, is an iterative software development methodology for object-oriented programming specially used by large teams. In FDD Methodology, features are added on the feedback of the client. The entire process from designing to development and implementation, is feature-based.

Pros of Feature Driven Development (FDD Model)

• Multiple teams can work simultaneously, and that reduces the time
• It is suitable for larger-size projects.
• Development process is highly standardized and simplified.
• Tracking progress through different phases is elementary.

Cons of Feature Driven Development (FDD Model)

• It is not suitable for smaller projects and a small team.
• High dependency on the lead developer.
• Deadlines cannot be strictly determined.
• Lack of proper documentation.

9. Rapid Application Development (RAD Model)

Rapid Application Development Methodology focuses on faster development and high-quality results compared to other methodologies. RAD Model is a combined approach of prototype Model and Agile Software Development Methodology to create more rapid iteration and faster release of prototypes. The main aim of RAD Methodology is to accelerate the entire development process. Achieving end goals is made easier and quicker due to feedback, faster corrections, and client participation in the development process.

Pros of Rapid Application Development (RAD Model)

• It reduces risks and efforts from the developer side.

• It helps the client to take a review of the project.
• Through continuous feedback, software development is improved.
• Due to the building of the prototype, there are lesser errors.
• The system is transparent so progress can be tracked easily.
• Changes in requirements are easily accommodated.
• Integration from the beginning solves end integration issues.

Cons of Rapid Application Development (RAD Model)

• Requires highly skilled developers and designers.
• Not suitable for small and low-budget projects.
• Documentation is tough to maintain.
• Dependency on technically strong team members.
• Management complexity is high.

10. Dynamic Systems Development Methodology (DSDM Model)

Dynamic Systems Development Methodology or DSDM Model is based on Rapid Application Development Model and Agile Development Model’s combined approach. This is an incremental and iterative approach that encourages the involvement of the client. The main aim of DSDM is to develop Custom Software on time and within a specific budget.

Pros of Dynamic Systems Development Methodology (DSDM Model)

• Basic functionality is delivered in less time.
• Projects are usually completed on time and within the budget.
• DSDM allows easy access to developers and clients.

Cons of Dynamic Systems Development Methodology (DSDM Model)

• Not suitable for small organizations or small projects.
• Implementation cost is usually high.
• It is a new concept in the market and is a bit complex to understand.
• It demands continuous client involvement.

11. Extreme Programming (XP) Methodology / XP model

Extreme Programming (XP) is a part of agile software engineering methodology. And this model is generally used to develop software within a volatile environment. The flexibility in the modeling process is high in XP. At the same time, this methodology aims to reduce the cost of development.

Pros of Extreme Programming (XP) Methodology / XP Model

• Project realization time and cost are saved.
• Timely delivery of final software.
• Simple documentation is done here.
• Emphasizes client involvement.
• Plans and schedules are built, and software developers remain committed to it.
• XP Model is consistent with modern software development, which results in high-quality products.

Cons of Extreme Programming (XP) Methodology / XP model

• Requires meetings at frequent intervals.
• Requires too many development changes, which makes the process complicated for a developer.
• Focuses more on code and less on design.
• Lack of documentation often leads to the occurrence of bugs in the future.

12. Lean Development Methodology

Lean development, also sometimes referred to as the LD Model, is an agile framework that focuses on optimizing development time and resources, eliminating waste, and creating easily changeable software. The goal of Lean Development is to build software in less time with less cost. A small version is released in the market and based on the user feedback, more functionalities are added.

Pros of Lean Development

• Streamlined processes deliver more functionality in less time.
• Time and cost are reduced through the elimination of unnecessary activity.
• Decision making is on the development team, which empowers them and boosts their morale.

Cons of Lean Development

• Success is highly dependent on team members and their skill sets.
• Requires expert business analysis to implement the LD model.
• Can lead to development mistakes if the documentation is not robust.

Conclusion

All of the listed methodologies work well depending upon the requirement and type of the project. It is not necessary that a methodology suited for one project must work for another project. None of these methodologies are entirely perfect, as each has its pros and cons. And to get the desired level of product within your criteria, it is necessary to go with the most suitable software methodology. Hence, I would suggest consulting a good software development company for effective outcomes.

Sigma Data Systems offers a helping hand in choosing the most appropriate methodology for your custom software development. We spend quality time on defining goals, analysis of product requirements, cost and time estimation, and expert team bundling for your project. Our experienced team with the required industrial skillset can implement the most complex methodologies and deliver quality end products on time.

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