Types of Software Development Methods (Waterfall, Rad, Agile, Prototype, etc.)

Understanding Software Development Methods

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According to research from IBM, software development is a term in computer science. The meaning is a series of activities carried out to design, create, apply, and support or improve software functions. 

Computer components are of two types, namely hardware and software. Hardware is a physical component, while the software is an invisible material. When operating a computer, these two components work simultaneously.

Hardware or hardware becomes a container of software that requires the media to work. In contrast, computer hardware cannot function without software. So, these two components need each other.

Software is often referred to as software, containing a series of programs that make hardware work so that the computer can be operated. This program contains instructions in a digital format created in a programming language.

Generally, there are three types of software in computers, namely systems, programs, and applications. The system provides the most core functions of a computer. For example, the Windows operating system, hardware management, storage memory, and so on.

The second type is software that can be used to create programs. Applications are the software you use most when operating your computer. For example, office applications, media players, antivirus, and others.


So what is the meaning of a software development method? In the online KBBI, a method is defined as an orderly method used to carry out a job in order to achieve the desired goal.

From this it can be concluded that the definition of a software development method is an orderly way to design or improve the functions of a program so that it is easier for users to operate the computer. 

Types of Model Software Development Methods


1. Waterfall method

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Waterfall is a traditional, systematic software development method. This method has five process stages, including CommunicationPlanningModelingConstruction, and Deployment.

Communication is the phase where the customer or project owner communicates their needs and problems to the developer. Then, together collect the necessary data and formulate software features.

Next, stepping on the design process. Starting with formulating work estimates, resource requirements, and workflow planning. Continue with the data structure design stage, architecture, display, and software algorithms.

The design is then applied to computer hardware in the form of a programming language. Construction also includes a trial phase of software operation to find out its weaknesses.

Once successfully created, the software is distributed to be implemented on general user devices. The findings from the users will be used as materials for developers to evaluate and improve the software further.


Weaknesses and Strengths of the Waterfall Method

The waterfall method involves a variety of systematic and comprehensive processes. Resources and stages of their work are collected in full so as to achieve maximum results. Unfortunately, the process takes longer.

The system in the waterfall method is a standard process, making it difficult for developers to improvise. That is why this method is considered less effective and is often only used in large-scale system or software development.

2. Prototype method

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Prototype
 in Indonesian is defined by the term prototype. The term means an initial model or a provisional design that still requires various adjustments before it is declared that it has met the desired results.

There are five stages in software development using the prototype method. Starting with the collection of information from customers to the development team. Then, the team will plan the system and work on the software prototype.

The results are then submitted to the customer for evaluation. If there are problems, the team will revise the system so that it really suits customer needs.

When the revision is complete and has been accepted, the software is ready to be translated into hardware. Then, it is followed by a trial process and various revisions before they can be used.

Weaknesses and Strengths of the Prototype Method

The prototype method is used when the project owner knows exactly what he wants, but does not know how to apply it. The key lies in good communication between customers and developers.

The customer must clearly convey his needs. Meanwhile, the developer is also expected to be able to translate the information in order to produce the appropriate software. Otherwise, this prototype will not be an effective method. 

Developers get big challenges from customers. Conversely, the customer can be satisfied if the developer is successful in meeting their needs. The cooperation of the two parties will be mutually beneficial.

3. Spiral method

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The spiral method combines the two development methods discussed earlier, namely the prototype and waterfall. Developers carry out prototyping in a systematic way typical of the waterfall method.

Generally, the spiral method is applied in large-scale software development, as well as requiring a complex system. Each process is always accompanied by an in-depth analysis of the level of risk and development success.

The spiral method is carried out in five steps. The first is communication, where the project owner communicates his needs to the developer of the rank device. Followed by detailed planning of the project being worked on.

The planning step is followed by an analysis to identify the various possibilities that may occur during development. Then, the software development starts and after it is finished it will get an evaluation from the customer.

The five steps are carried out repeatedly at each stage of development. Starting from concept development, prototype development, repair, change, to the maintenance of the finished system.

Disadvantages and Pros of the Spiral Method

The spiral method employs complex, lengthy and time-consuming workflows. This method is not suitable for small projects, let alone low budget ones. On the other hand, large-scale projects can be carried out easily using this method.

In addition, the spiral method is also less appropriate if it is done by inexperienced software developers. The process can be too complex for beginners who still need a lot of practice.

4. The RAD method

researchgate.net

RAD stands for Rapid Application Development. This method also uses an iterative and incremental approach but emphasizes more on deadlines and cost efficiency as needed. 

The development process using the RAD method is considered to be shorter. This is because all parties, both customers and developers, continue to be actively involved in every process until results can be achieved. In addition, there are also fewer stages of work on this method.

The workflow is simply divided into three phases which are all solid. Identification of objectives accompanied by direct communication and design, in which all parties are actively involved in each formulation. This process is the initial stage of the RAD Method.

The second stage still involves all parties, namely the process of designing a system or software as needed. Customers or users get involved in testing the software. The fix is ​​immediately applied if the user finds an error.

When the user is satisfied with the software design, after going through various improvements, then the work process reaches the last stage, namely implementation. Design software began to be translated into machine language and became available.

Disadvantages and Strengths of the RAD Method

Some of the shortcomings of the RAD method, among others, are seen in terms of consistency and personnel capabilities. This method requires expert development, as well as active and consistent collaboration between the project owner and the rest of the team.

Without these two things, it is impossible to apply the RAD method in software development, especially on a large scale. However, if these two things are properly accommodated, the RAD method is the most effective way to save time and money.  

5. Agile Method

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    The scrum discussion has touched on the agile method quite a bit. The agile method is the parent of Scrum. If a scrum is a framework, agile is the implementation of a large-scale, whole project.

This method is classified as modern because it emphasizes improvisation and adaptation. Even so, the workflow still applies the traditional, systematic pattern. Starting from planning needs analysis, design, testing, implementation, and maintenance.

One of the keys to agile is job documentation. Documentation must be neat and structured. This is closely related to the agile method which is adaptive to changes in the phenomenon of software users.

Developers need important data from past work to make continuous improvements. Good documentation will shorten the time it takes for developers to repair systems or software.

Pros and Cons of the Agile Method


If oriented towards user satisfaction, agile methods provide the right procedure. Likewise with large projects that require long-term maintenance. Agile methods are advantageous in terms of time and energy efficiency.

The advantages of the agile method also lie in the adaptability and freedom for the developer to improvise. There is no standard limit for developers when they want to implement new ideas in responding to the challenges of the times.

However, that does not mean that this method has no drawbacks. The biggest challenge will be faced by developers who are continuously encouraged to adapt to changing times. The development team must not be selective, it must be solid and equally committed.

6. The Scrum Method

agilearena.net


This method is a derivative of the agile method, which will be discussed separately later. Scrum is often not classified as a methodology, but rather a framework that uses an iterative (looping) and incremental (gradual) approach.

Developers apply Scrum when they want to build complex systems. This is because this framework is intended to produce high value, unique and productive products. Reportedly Google, Microsoft, and Spotify have implemented this system.

Unlike the waterfall method which uses a systematic approach, Scrum is applied in five stages that are imperative and incremental. Therefore, the Scrum framework must involve several teams synergizing with each other.

The Scrum framework divides the development process into small targets expressed in sprints. This term refers to the speed of running a short distance. A number of small targets must be completed in a short amount of time for a larger end goal.  

Development begins with formulating a priority sprint target for each team. This is followed by the identification of specific jobs and the work process according to the predetermined sprint targets. Meanwhile, periodic evaluations are carried out during the cultivation period of each sprint.  

Every time the sprint ends, the team involved always delivers the results of their work. This stage also includes a thorough evaluation and formulation of new ideas that may be applied in the next sprint.

Pros and Cons of the Scrum Method

The advantage of the Scrum method lies in its ability to produce high-value software. It is also seen as more effective because it is able to solve complex problems by delegating specific tasks to several independent teams. 

A new problem arises when an obstacle makes a team fail to reach its sprint target. The impact will affect the rhythm of other teamwork. This method also allows free improvisation so it requires a team with great flexibility.

 

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